I have a 98 Civic LX with 33k miles. As far as i know (I'm 2nd owner), it has always had regular non synthetic oil in it. I know synthetic is better for the engine and lets you go longer between changes, but I heard that switching from regular to synthetic can cause some kind of build up in the engine (?) and even cause damage. Is this true? Or can I safely get synthetic put in at my next change?

 

Do it.

 

I've never heard about this. I'm pretty sure even MIXING synth and non-synth won't hurt it, especially considering some brands that claim "Synthetic" are only small blends of synthetic with non synthetic. But either way, I've switched over to Synthetic when buying a used car when the previous owners didn't use it and never had a problem.. had a ford 302 go for over 350k miles once with no serious major engine problems. Heheh maybe this is typical for Hondas but with Fords? Hahaha no way I guess I just got lucky.

 

the only element that causes degradation to the Oil is water...that's why you have to change it periodically...nothing else but water infiltrating oil tank

 

Bullsh!t... Running synthetic motor oil is the single best thing you can do for your engine. Switch to Mobil 1; the sooner the better. You won't be sorry!