These companies would do anything to increase sales.
The 20k mile claim is very vague (given that most engines today are direct injected, turbocharged, small, and burns oil) and I think we really need more strict regulations when it comes to marketing claims. I would not run this oil for 20k miles in my 4.3 vortec that only holds 4.5 quarts in the sump. The 20k mile claim is crazy, especially in today’s world with tgdi’s and oil consuming engines. Most people don’t even check their oils or even get it changed on time. Just imagine all the regular people that will use this oil and really go 20k miles with it. Their engines will lock up even before reaching 8k miles due to oil consumption. I feel sorry for people that don’t know any better.
I’m pretty sure in the near future, some company will come out with engine oil product lines called “Life Time Motor Oil”.
The product description will probably state something like this:
“This engine oil is formulated to last forever in any engine. If you do an oil change with this oil, your engine will never ever need another oil change, 300,000 miles guaranteed!*
Our life time motor oil line only comes in 0w-8 and 0w-16, to maximize fuel economy. These two grades of oils are backwards compatible with any engine, even in engines that require an oil as thick as 10w60! Use the 0w-8 for maximum fuel economy.
This product line contains a special synthetic base oil called Foreverlube, which can last 300k miles in even the most demanding applications. Use with confidence!
*We do not offer warranty, and will not accept warranty claims, and we are not going to be responsible for any engine damage that may occur. This product should only be used by people that have the financial ability to replace their engines every 30k miles.