I have a 90 Accord with 422,000 miles. Between 325K and 400K it would use 1 quart between oil changes (5K intervals). With the miles on it now the oil consumption has increased to 1 quart every 1K. I am using Quaker State High Mileage 10-40. I keep my top speed between 60 - 65 mph. Any suggestions on an oil type to keep this old girl running?

 

I would just continue with the same oil you are using. I would check and/or replace the pcv valve.

 

Thanks for the reply. I'll admit I have ignored the PCV Valve.....I'll change it and see if it helps.

 

Well are you burning it or leaking it?

That would answer as to what you should do. If you're leaking......fix the leak. If you're just burning it off I would just keep using High Mileage formula oil you have been using.

*edit*

That's also assuming you're keeping on track with maintainence. At 422k and a 1990, I would expect at least 4 timing belt/water pump changes based on mileage. A coolant flush, and all the other fluids changed out (brake, ps, etc).

 

As long as you don't have a major leak, I wouldn't worried about the oil usage at that mileage. Oil is cheap compare to any engine work or oil seal replacement. I would just drive it and keep up with any normal maintenance.


For example, at $4.29/quart retail, burning an average of 1 qt. per 1K miles, going another 10,000 miles would be about $42.90 + tax extra (in addition to regular oil change), going 100,000 miles would be $429 + tax extra.

http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/web...C_T|GRP2046___

And you probably can get the oil for less.

 

That's a good point redbull, I've had some cheap fixes though - like a leak from the oil pan seal - just retighten all the bolts to spec, mine loosened over time. Valve cover seal is dirty cheap and easy to replace, etc.

Now you could have a large problem though, and that I would have fixed otherwise it could blow out on you - draining all your oil which could destroy the motor. (Had my balance shaft seal blow out on me and dump all my oil before)

 

Yup. Never neglect the PCV valve as it can cause oil consumption. Its just as important as any other parts.