Synthetic is a term (often debated) that applies to the base stock. 75% of oil is base stock.
The other 25% is additives.
Both are critical to performance. “Synthetic” is not enough. You need an oil that is designed for long drain intervals to keep the PCV system clean.
Look for an ACEA A3/B4, which is the standard that Volvo recommends for engine cleaning in their sludge removal TNN. The two synthetics that I recommended meet that standard.
Many synthetics do not.
Current Fleet:
2016 Tundra Crewmax 4WD 1794
2005 MB S600 (126K, Michelin AS4, HPL 0W40)
2005 MB SL600 (55K Michelin AS4, Mobil 1 0W40)
2004 V70R (143K, six speed M66, HPL 5W40)
2004 XC90 (235K, HPL 0W30 Euro)
2002 V70-XC (295K, HPL 0W30 Euro)
2002 V70-T5 (225K, IPD bars, Bilsteins)
2001 V70-T5 (125K, IPD downpipe, cat back and other mods)
1932 Packard Sedan (straight 8, dual sidemounts, original paint and interior, Shell Rotella 15W40)
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