Can I change my oil from 10w 30 to 5w 30 and why is sludge all over my dipstick?
What is your question?
My daughters car was brought brand new off the lot and the car called for 0w but for some reason my daughter was told to use 10w 30 and I thought that is a little heavy for a Civic. She used Mobil 1 extended performance that could be changed every 15000 miles but I think she has only changed the oil a few times. Can I switch to Mobil 1 extended performance 5w 30 or should I just stick with 10w 30. Her car is now overdue for a oil change and black sludge is all over the dipstick when you pull it out. Sometimes when you accelerate the car will start shaking for about 2 seconds and then start driving normal again and there are times that it will shake and then jump but the jumping only happens every now and then. What could be wrong and what do I do about the sludge build up?
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This car does not take 10W30! Please follow the manual to use the proper oil grade. 0W20 ONLY. Period. You can get a full synthetic or part synthetic oil. Start by using the right oil, perhaps change the oil more frequently at first, and see if this improves things. 10W30 is absolutely a no!
Newer Hondas should only use 0w20 and I would change the oil at least every 7000 miles. 15000 miles is far to long between oil changes even for a good full synthetic. I would get the oil changed immediately as soon as possible. The Honda dealership has 0w20 synthetic blend, and you are fine using any 0w20 full synthetic. Older hondas used a 5w20 sythetic blend. Worst case scenario if 0w20 was not available (which is usually always is) 5w20 may be a last resort. Full synthetic is usually the only option when purchasing oil from the parts store. But honda will tell you you can use a synthetic blend 0w20 but they are the only place that i see that offers it. Most Honda dealerships only charge about 35-45$ for an oil change. There is no shame in paying someone to change your oil for you. Even though I am an independent shop owner, I would rather you take it to them to have it serviced than try to change it yourself. No to mention you probably need to have your engine flushed with all the sludge.
IF you do not have the check engine light on, at this time, I would suggest (as others have) to use 0W-20 oil and a HONDA filter, and rather than a 'flush', I would suggest doing several more frequent (every 1,500-2,000 miles) oil changes, until the 'sludge' you describe, clears up a bit. maybe 3-4 changes.
