Hess97

So, I have a 1997 Civic Ex - D16Y8, and I switched to synthetic oil about a month ago. Now I'm not sure if my oil leaks are a result of this, kind of asking, but at the same time I'm pretty sure it was leaking before I switched oils. Anyway I degreased my engine and got all the gunk away from the leak, so now it's leaking faster. After a while of inspecting my mechanic friend discovered it was coming from the VTEC Solenoid housing. He used some silicone and it sealed it for about a day. Now it's leaking again but just a little, so I have gone and purchased the gasket from Honda.

My question is, was this a result of me using synthetic oil in my old Civic? Should I just switch back to regular 5W30 before I start getting more oil leaks in worse places? It's the only oil leak I have at the moment but I want the car to be running perfect.

NotARaCist

iTrader: (1)

No.

Hess97

I've been running Federated Synthetic, since at my work I get a nice discount and everything is Federated, should I grab Mobil 1 and let my discount work it's magic? Also you didn't give me much, just a "No.", any elaboration? Sorry if I just sound stupid, I'm just getting into my Civic and I'm trying to learn. I've put some bolt ons on but I'm trying to learn more about the mechanics.

NotARaCist

iTrader: (1)

Synthetic oil is "cleaner", as it has more detergents and additives in it than most dyno oils. It's also "slicker" because of those additives. It won't make leaks worse. Plenty of people have anecdotal evidence, and will blame synthetic oil when they blow a seal, gasket, or ring ("it happened X changes after I went to synthetic, it must be the oil's fault!"), but the reality of that situation is that the seal, gasket, or ring blew because of poor engine maintenance or extreme engine life, not because of switching from dyno to synthetic.

Hess97

Thank you very much! Literally perfect, thank you.

slomofo

iTrader: (1)

I'd like everyone here to give grumblemarc Jr. aka NotARacist aka jbpnoman a round of applause for his very first post ever where he gave someone advice without coming off as a douchebag.

Former User

I think this^ was a compliment. Can anyone verify?

NotARaCist

iTrader: (1)

It...it might very well be.

Do I need to balance it out? Maybe well Slo off, or something? I don't know!