Correct Oil for 3.8L Engine
I have a 2009 petrol Wrangler with the 3.8L V6. Since new I have changed the oil and filter at the mid point of the service interval (every 6,000 kms) as well as getting it serviced at every 12,000 kms either at a Jeep dealership or by my local mechanic. The book specifies 5W-20 oil, but due to it being unavailable here in Canberra until just recently, myself and my mechanic have been using good quality 5W-30 that meets MB229.31 or MB229.51, as per the book. Now that 5W-20 has suddenly appeared on the shelves (Nulon, Penrite, LiquiMoly), it is worth switching to 5W-20 oil, given that the vehicle has done 130,000 kms and doesn't burn any oil? From what I have read, 5W-20 oil seems to be more about the manufacturer being able to meet Government imposed fuel efficiency regulations than protecting the engine from wear. Additionally, the other specs required by Jeep (ACEA C3, MB229.31, MB229.51) seem to relate to diesel engines and those petrol engines with very long service intervals (up to 20,000 kms). Seeing that neither of these apply to my engine, should I just keep using a good quality 5W-30, or should I go with the manufacturers requirements. Interestingly, the 3 times I have had the vehicle serviced by Jeep, they have used 3 different types of oil - 5W-40, 5W-20 and 5W-40 again, but from a different oil company.
Am I over thinking this? Are there any oil experts out there with some sage advice for me please?
Last edited by The Spook; 21-01-2015 at 12:12 PM.
|