I'll be putting the car away for the winter hibernation this weekend. The car has 8500 miles total, the current oil has ~900 miles on it, and looks brand new on the dipstick. I plan to switch to Mobil 1 in the spring. Any opinions on whether or not I should change the oil now or just in the spring? If now, will Mobil 1 need to be replaced after 6 months? And I know, a regular oil change is only $20. But that's also one autoX entry fee!

Thanks for any advice-

 

Can you check the pH of the oil? If it is a lot lower than new oil, change it.

 

I think with only 900 miles on you should be fine. I would just leave it until spring.

 

I wouldn't change it. It should be fine with only 900 miles on that oil.

Justin

 

Well, since I haven't even seen litmus paper since high school, I think I'll just change it in April! But first, will put a few more miles on before the long winter nap begins on Sunday.......

Thanks for the opinions!

 

Just change it, besides it's better to know that you've done it before you put it to sleep. It's not gonna cause any harm anyway ...

 

I'd just leave it. Only 900 miles....don't worry.

 

No worries.

 

Low mileage oil should be ok. I would recommend that you make sure to warm it up completely before putting it to bed for the winter. This will minimize the water in the engine. Moisture is your enemy allowing acids to form and eat away while stored.