Has anyone evidence that points to high temp oil breakdown on the 96 engines? This question is directed to those folks that have the advantage of having seen inside the engine. Oil breakdown would probably be indicated (first)by scuffing on the cylinder walls. The closed loop EFI used in the 96 engine maintains a lean mixture that results in extremely high operationg temperatures at idle. I understand that synthetic oils (crankcase)can tolerate high operating temperatures far better than mineral based lubricants. High operating temperatures could be thebane of these engines and perhaps people should bemore discerning when buying (oil). For those folks operating stop-go in hot climates be aware that (supposedly) the 96 can detect an overheat condition. On detection the idle is slowed and the mixture is richened ... this (slow-idle) persists until the RPM rises above (approx) 1200 and then the microprocessor automatically leans the mixture.Should we be more careful when buying crankcase lubricants for the 96? Maybe!

 

You are right, and this is why many of us suggest the use of an oil cooler in addition to using a quality synthetic oil. Providing every bit of cooling possible has no downside and will only result in longer engine life...

 

Sure. The 96 runs hotter than the 88. Both have built in "heat management" in the ECM. So synthetics are no doubt a good idea to give you an extra margin of protection against heat related engine wear/damage. But changing oil often enough is equally important. If you are a heavy "stop and go" driver than you are running in what is considered "severe service" and your oil change intervals should be shorter do to faster anti-wear additive depletion.