no oil should get chunky on you = ) (atleast i hope) from my experiences it either gets thicker in colder weather, or thinner in warmer weather. when oil gets old - meaning its been used - it has outlived its usefulness to protect and lubricate as fresh oil would.

 

I'm thinking about going this route, but the cost is quite high.

My local walmart sells Penzoil and Castrol GTX in oil change sized jugs for about 11-12 bucks Canadian. They don't have filters for my 2.0 yet though. I guess I will just let the dealer service it for now.

 

you will fine running pertoleum based oil. But you "may" get better results from using synthetics!

 

Sorry about reviving an old thread.

I don't think it is a conspiracy. I think they call for 5w20 weight oil in the US to meet CAFE requirements for fuel consumption and emissions equipment. I know US oils have reduced the amount of phosphourus they use as an additive, which is one of the most important anti-wear additives added to oil in order to meet the 150k mile warranty required on emissions components. Some oils, like the extended life Mobil 1, still use at least 1000 ppm phosphorous (twice the amount of most new oils). I plan on switching to the 5w30 extended life oil for my next oil change for my 2.3, but I don't know if that will impact my warranty.

 

you will problably be fine. Your mileage and responsiveness will be hurt a little. But you will be fine with 5w-30