I have used Mobil 1 full synthetic for many years in a variety of vehicles. A couple of years ago I went to Wallies to get oil for my 2005 Sienna, and there was no 5W30 M1 in stock, so I picked up some Pennzoil Platinum. When I changed oil again, I noticed that the PP looked significantly cleaner than the M1 ever had in any of my vehicles, including the Sienna - noticeably lighter in color rather than the dark I am accustomed to seeing. This has held true for several more oil changes using PP. Nothing has changed in terms of the OCI (7,500+ miles), filter (usually Fram Ultra), or general driving patterns. It currently has about 144K miles (yes, I know I don't drive a lot). It has never consumed much oil, certainly less than 1/4 quart per oil change, usually much less than that if any.
I mentioned this to a colleague who does a lot of work on cars and car restorations, and he questioned whether this was a good thing, thinking that the PP may not be doing its job of removing dirt, etc.
I continue to use M1 in my 2008 Civic, and it looks the same as it always has.
Thoughts? Is this the norm for PP?
Hopefully unrelated was the recent need to replace a leaking valve cover gasket, but I don't suppose that is terribly surprising given the vehicle's age.
I mentioned this to a colleague who does a lot of work on cars and car restorations, and he questioned whether this was a good thing, thinking that the PP may not be doing its job of removing dirt, etc.
I continue to use M1 in my 2008 Civic, and it looks the same as it always has.
Thoughts? Is this the norm for PP?
Hopefully unrelated was the recent need to replace a leaking valve cover gasket, but I don't suppose that is terribly surprising given the vehicle's age.