Hybrid Engine Oil

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Dec 14, 2008 | 10:03 PM

maticuno

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From: California Desert

Hybrid Engine Oil

'06 Escape Hybrid FWD. I've been changing my own oil and running Mobile 1 5W20 since the thing was new. I'm about ready to change the oil again when I got to thinking about the weight of the oil. Is 5W20 really necessary? I swear I feel like I'm pouring straight water into the engine when I use that stuff. Would 5W30 kill it? What about some Lucas additive to slightly boost oil adhesion?

Dec 15, 2008 | 07:02 AM

DoctorCAD

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Why?

Ford recommends 5W20 for a reason.

But it's your car, do what you want.

Dec 15, 2008 | 10:59 AM

maticuno

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From: California Desert

Ford also recommended Conti-Trac Eco+ tires and BP Gas and we all know how well those work out. I'm just considering a change because where I live 5W20 is a little hard to find. Sometimes I have to order a week in advance.

Dec 15, 2008 | 01:06 PM

YoGeorge

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From: Detroit

Quote:

Originally Posted by maticuno

I look at it more like Ford recommends regular gas and 235/70x16 tires, not brand names...(BP does get a kickback on the gas cap recommendations). The new Escapes have switched to Michelin Latitude HP tires, and I'm guessing those are way better than the Conti's....

People have put many hard miles on Ford engines using the recommended 5W20 oil and I haven't heard of engines being damaged from it. Order it by the case (or 55 gallon drum) if you have difficulty getting it. Most oil additives are pure marketing hype; if the Lucas stuff is supposed to increase film strength or something, it is probably a thickener that will take the 5W20 out of spec.

Does your engine burn oil when you use the 5W20? If you change oil fairly often, you could get by just fine with the Motorcraft 5W20 semi-syn.

George

Dec 15, 2008 | 02:06 PM

Nitramjr

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From: North of Boston MA

I'd also keep in mind warranty considerations if you use an oil other than what is recommended by the manufacturer. With the car makers tough shape like they are, they are probably more likely than ever to deny a warranty claim.

FWIW, I use only the Motorcraft 5W-20 as specified in the book. I can usually find it at Auto Bone but if they don't have it (and I need it bad enough), I'll hold my nose and go to Wally World.

Dec 15, 2008 | 02:27 PM

YoGeorge

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From: Detroit

ps...here's a test of Lucas oil additive...

...on Bob is the Oil Guy. Looks like it works great if you want to whip your oil into a froth; appears to kill the anti-foaming ingredients in the oil. Again, additives are scary sometimes (and please remember that today's motor oils are already loaded with a balanced mix of additives):

What about Additives?

Dec 15, 2008 | 04:10 PM

wendell borror

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I put 10W-30 in my 01 escape at the first oil change and dropped a lifter. My dealer fixed it under warrenty, but they knew. I had delt with them for about 15 years at the time, so they gave me a break. Now what ford recomends, I use.