So Quick question, I have an 09 ES Lancer. I have been running conventional oil. My question is would it hurt or help to switch to full synthetic? Do I have to do anything for the change? It has the stock 2.0 liter motor with CVT trans.

 

This is a highly debated topic. Some people swear buy it some swear it does nothing.

Personally, I believe that the synthetic oil is a much better quality product. I use Mobil1 in both my vehicles (yes there are better syns but not cheaper and better).

My two concerns. You do not get to extend oil change intervals. Oil collects soot and dirt, while a filter will trap some of it, some will remain, and every once in a while you MUST change the oil to help eliminate those contaminants. Second concern is more toward higher mileage vehicles. First, it's best to stay on one type of oil, and if you do change, change types slowly over a couple oil changes. But vehicles with high mileage, the piston rings may be more warn and you may end up with excessive oil burning which could clog up the engine and your catalytic converter (which is costly to replace). So my recommendation would be if your start burning a significant amount of oil, to go back to conventional. Or if you already have 150k miles, don't bother switching.

 

Switching over to full synthetic should be fine. It lasts longer and 'should' be better for the car. however the longer you wait, the less effective it will be. As newemi said, if you already have a high amount of miles, dont bother.

Just make sure that you use the same grade of oil Should be 5W20 if I am not mistaken. The 2011 lancers run 0W20 which I find really interesting.

 

Make the switch! However, once you make the change don't go back.

 

Sorry for the long delay here but just wanted to let you guys know that I made the switch to full synthetic. For the brand I went with Mobil 1 5W-20 and the Mobil 1 oil filter as well. Even had a little extra cash so I bought a K&N air filter(not that big of a deal but anything helps right?). Also ran a tank of premium gas through the motor and have since been running on mid grade. As far as performance, I wouldn't exactly say that there is a noticeable change however it does seem to feel like the motor is running a bit smoother. Thanks for the advice guys.

 

The change to mid-grade or premium gas will do nothing for performance (it's actually a waste of money). It is only helpful if you are experiencing knocking or pinging. The K&N filter drop will do minimal for performance, nothing noticeable. The switch to full synthetic is also debatable as originally stated.

I've always only ever run Mobil1 Syn also. I think for me, it's more peace of mind as there are many many vehicles that run dino oil and are still running after 20 years.

Don;t know if this adds to the discussion or not but here is a great breakdown of oil filters:
http://minimopar.knizefamily.net/oil...reference.html