2012 Mazda CX-9 Excess oil consumption?

[mbacfp]

Hello All,

I have a question regarding my Mazda CX-9 with the 3.7 Duratec V6 engine. I previously had it serviced through Mazda (every 6 months/6,000 miles). They used Castrol conventional 5w-20. I am now changing my own oil and used Mobil 1 Synthetic 5w-20 (got good deals with rebates). However, after 3,200 miles into oil change (coming up on 6 months as well)...I just had to add a little less than a half a quart of oil to bring level back to full. Question, it that excessive? Did switching to synthetic cause this problem?

Also, my commute changed from 50 miles round trip a day (90% highway) to 14 miles round trip (95% highway). Also, I never checked oil as frequently since I always had it changed by dealer every 6 months (never noticed so much oil consumption). Now, since my commute has changed I was hoping to go 6,000 miles or 1 year instead of 6,000 or 6 months.
Mazda recommends convention every 6 months...perhaps my car doesn’t like synthetic? Appreciate any insights on this. Hope all is well.

 

[PimTac]

Sometimes a change in oils or going from conventional to synthetic causes some temporary consumption. Run the Mobil for a few intervals and see if it settles down.

 

[JoelB]

I've heard stories of slightly increased consumption when switching between brands. Maybe it will die down over time? I would track it for a bit before immediately making any snap changes.

 

[mbacfp]

Got a good deal on Mobil 1 extended performance 5w-20 for next time...but noticing the oil consumption got me thinking. I will get a used oil analysis at the 6 month mark to make sure it can go 1 year or 6,000 miles. Why does synthetic sometimes cause that?

 

[mbacfp]

Thanks for the info. I did switch brands and to synthetic after 48,000 miles...so maybe (hoping) that is the issue.

 

[Nickdfresh]

The consumption doesn't sound at all excessive. How many miles on your Mazda?

 

[mbacfp]

About 52,200 miles or so.

 

[zaffo757]

Some engines do not react well to the characteristics of synthetic, consumption and leaks. My 4runner 4.7 v8 had no issues with full synthetic - does not use any over 7500 mile OCI. My wife's Honda civic uses it to the point where keeping it topped up because it burns it and because it has a small oil pan - is not convenient with 6000 mile oci. She is not careful. I'm not willing to get burned.

That 3.7 has 5.5 qt capacity, so I doubt you'd have an issue with the level getting lower than you'd be comfortable with, but the choice is up to you. If you are careful and diligent, no reason not to use M1 if it makes you feel good.

 

[CELICA_XX]

That doesn't sound excessive at all. You're good to go