oil types

[catlad]

I've just bought some more oil for my Toyota Hiace van, the can looks identical to the last one, except the old one said mineral oil and this one says synthetic! anyone know why, or what the difference is?

 

[Wayners]

You should use synthetic oil.
Mineral oil shouldn't be used.
You haven't bought the correct oil unless it's an old van.

Check spec and year

 

[catlad]

Do you know what the difference is?

 

[Wayners]

What year is van?

I think turbo runs hot and mineral oil won't take heat

 

[JohnD]

I've just bought some more oil for my Toyota Hiace van, the can looks identical to the last one, except the old one said mineral oil and this one says synthetic! anyone know why, or what the difference is?

What does the owners handbook say is required? This is the definitive source, more reliable than random 'netters, or people trying to sell oil.

You can look it up if you know the model, year and engine.

Lots of people jump to Synthetic even for engines that were designed before it was on the market.

Synthetic will last more miles between changes, but as it is more expensive, I doubt it is often bought by neglectful owners.

Changing the oil and filter at recommended intervals is more worthwhile than buying expensive oils.

For some reason, American 'netters recommend far more frequent changes than manufacturers. Perhaps American oil Is not very good

 

[DIYspanner]

Millers or Morris will advise on the correct oil you if you type the reg in.

 

[Diver Fred]

Clean oil is always good. But it's more important to change oil frequently on low milage vehicles as high detergent oils absorb and hold water - high mileage vehicles will boil (burn) off the water content.