Group III vs Group IV oil?

Justin · Postby **Justin** » Mon Apr 27, 2009 9:14

Been doing some research into synthetic oils and am looking for a little feedback. Anyone know enough about oil to discuss the advantages of going to a full Group IV oil (truly synthetic) over a Group III (hydrocracked from a petroleum base-not truly synthetic) despite the significant additional cost? Any suggestion about good oils to go with and where to purchase? My inclination is to go with a full Group IV because I'm pointlessly anal about this kind of stuff, but I'm having a hard time finding out which oils are actual Group IV due to the massive amount of marketing hype around synthetic oils. If it matters, I'll probably continue to change oil around 5-7k miles to reduce any potential warranty problems, as my MS3 is only about 11k old. Thanks!

Finnicky7 · Postby **Finnicky7** » Tue Apr 28, 2009 9:14

I've used Amsoil 5w30 and 0w20 in both of my vehicle for over 4 years and 200k mile with great results. I also do 10k oil changes with a filter swap at 5k.

Postby **RX-7 Chris** » Tue Apr 28, 2009 9:14

Here are two threads on oil

http://www.coloradomazdaclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3426
http://www.coloradomazdaclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1798

dommo_g · Postby **dommo_g** » Tue Apr 28, 2009 9:14

I guess the only true way to measure benefit is oil analysis after changes of both types. I don't want to bother with that trouble, so I always use Royal Purple. Every 3k in my SRT-4, every 5k in my MS3. I used to use Mobil1 on previous cars, but I didn't like their claim of 'full synthetic' after finding out about their formulation change, or whatever it was that happened with them. I know 3k or even 5k is really overkill with a high quality oil, I do it anyway.

On a related note, new GM cars have what's called an Oil Life Monitoring System that tells you when to change the oil. Average interval on conventional oil is around 8500k. Engines and oils have improved greatly, so I'm certain 3k isn't necessary for the majority of cars out there.

MazdaTom · Postby **MazdaTom** » Tue Apr 28, 2009 9:14

My 1991 Mazda 626 recommended 7500 mile oil change intervals. My VUE with its oil life monitor turns on about every 6500-7000 miles. I change my Protege at about 5000 miles even though I think the owner's manual still recommends 7500 mile intervals. Every 3000 is kind of a thing of the past.

dommo_g · Postby **dommo_g** » Thu Apr 30, 2009 9:14

What year is your Vue? I have a friend whose oil monitor is on track for a 8500 mile change. It has the 3.6l V6.

MazdaTom · Postby **MazdaTom** » Thu Apr 30, 2009 9:14

Mine is a 2004.

Is your friend's one of the new VUEs?

dommo_g · Postby **dommo_g** » Fri May 01, 2009 9:14

Yeah, 2008 XR AWD. I sold it to her.

I`m Batman · Postby **I`m Batman** » Sun May 03, 2009 9:14

I change all my cars every 3k with Mobil 1 no matter what the manual says...

Group III vs Group IV oil?

Group III vs Group IV oil?

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