Synthetic oil isn't necessarily the cause of an oil leak. Leaks occur due to poor/worn seals.

A lot of opinions and myths exist dealing with synthetic oil and oil leaks. Some may come from very early versions of synthetic oil, where the synthetic oil might have cleaned deposits that helped seal old seals, or the formulation caused seals to shrink. I don't believe that is a problem with modern synthetic oils.

My opinion is to stick with the oil recommended for your engine, because I don't think you gain much by using a synthetic oil vs traditional oil in vehicles. I also do not think synthetic oil hurts your vehicle either.

Regardless of oil type, be prudent in checking your oil level. Keep a quart of oil in your trunk in case of emergency. Be more persistent on checking your oil level if you switch between a traditional DINO oil to a synthetic or vice versa.

 

yes thanks PAHONDA. 277000 miles, would you recommend. 5 - 30, or go. A thicker weight oil

 

Go with the oil weight recommended for your car based on the information in the owner's manual for your climate.I think 5W-30 is recommenced for your engine. Do not go with heavier oil. Just monitor your oil level appropriately to ensure you do not have a leak.

 

Definitely leaking somewhere, lot of white exhaust this morning, lot of little pops, backfire, at take off, was one or two louder one's before. Get a compression tester tomorrow. Update after.
thanks again