About 90 days ago (and 1000 miles) I did an oil change on my '08 HHR. Since I couldn't find the usual Castrol GTX high mileage part synthetic, I purchased the next best thing available which was Mobil 1 Extended Performance High Mileage (20k) full synthetic. From what I read, there was no issue with using it even if there was a little of the other still in the engine. For some reason, it seems to be burning oil or something. I've checked it and had to top it up twice. This evening, I noticed an unusual film in the spout and on the cap. The dip stick looks normal though. Thoughts?

 

Don't use any "high mileage" oils. They have stuff in them that can kill the catalytic converter and swell rubber seals that then start to leak.
The picture looks like you might have condensation or water in the oil. As long as you are not loosing coolant don't worry, check it under the pressure cap.

 

Only 1000 miles in 3 months ? It may just be condensation in the crankcase that isn’t evaporating because of the low mileage use. And if those low miles are a bunch of short trips then it could be worse because the engine doesn’t get to operate at full temperature long enough.

 

I run Castrol 5W30 Dexos II and don’t have this condensation issue, I stay away from high mileage oils.

 

Thanks for the warning about high mileage oil. I was not aware. I guess I fell into the marketing trap. I'll see about doing an oil change which will put better oil in the car and also give me a chance to get a true reading on the color of what comes out.

As for low miles in 3 mo, I'm self-employed at the moment so don't have a lot of driving to do. I typically drive a few times a week locally and a 45-min drive @ 60Mph weekly. I'll check the coolant level.

Thank you again for the feedback!

 

You are welcome!