So I had the VC gaskets and spark tube seals replaced on my 07 Impreza last week. The guy that did them asked if I knew the red 1989 Legacy wagon that delivers mail (we are all rural routes here, no postal trucks), and I said yes. He said the owner bought it new and has used Amsoil exclusively, and the valve covers have never been off the engine. It's now at 397k. I think it's pretty obvious that a rural carrier route, where about 20% of the roads are still gravel, qualifies as severe service. The only thing that's been done to the engine has been 3 timing belts and water pumps, which is a consumable on these engines. No work on the tranny either, which has used Amsoil ATF.
This is in stark contrast to the 2012-2014 Jeep Patriot he had on his lot, which had a CVT failure. He expressed his concerns with calling the customer, because the cost of a new CVT exceeds the current KBB price of the car!
Bottom line, yes, Amsoil products are pricey, but if you intend on keeping the car for 30 years, it may make sense if it keeps you from buying a new vehicle and/or having significant repairs! Sure, these results are probably achievable with other oils and transmission fluids as well... but most people just don't keep a vehicle long enough to make these observations.
This is in stark contrast to the 2012-2014 Jeep Patriot he had on his lot, which had a CVT failure. He expressed his concerns with calling the customer, because the cost of a new CVT exceeds the current KBB price of the car!
Bottom line, yes, Amsoil products are pricey, but if you intend on keeping the car for 30 years, it may make sense if it keeps you from buying a new vehicle and/or having significant repairs! Sure, these results are probably achievable with other oils and transmission fluids as well... but most people just don't keep a vehicle long enough to make these observations.
