No need to rush oil change

Q: I purchased a 2024 Elantra Hybrid Limited a couple of months ago. What’s your opinion on a break-in period oil and filter change at about 3,000 miles? I have about 3,200. Do you think it makes sense to change the oil and filter at that point? The owner’s manual calls for oil and filter changes every 8,000 miles. I look forward to your advice.

A: A long time ago, break-in periods were as short as 100 to 200 miles. Many components, including bearings and piston rings, had to wear in. Changing the oil got rid of unwanted metal particles. Today, all you need to do is drive gently for the first 1,000 miles. No jackrabbit starts, heavy towing and so on. If new vehicles needed a break-in oil change, the owner’s manual would say so. Of course, you are free to change your oil as often as you like, but it’s unnecessary.

Q: I recently had a flat tire and waited almost two hours for my road service company to come out. I am considering buying run-flat tires. I understand that they are vastly improved over earlier versions, and there are so many people who physically cannot change a tire or don’t know how. Some cars don’t even have a spare tire. The new run-flats are much quieter and ride better than the previous generation. Why doesn’t everyone use them?

A: You’re right. Run-flat technology has improved. But two things to consider are price and repairability. The initial price for run-flats is higher than traditional tires. The other consideration is that they cannot be repaired. They’re designed to let you travel up to 50 miles at 50 mph after they’ve been damaged, but then must be replaced. Simply weigh the cost against convenience, security and safety.

Q: The reader who purchased a 1963 Chevrolet Nova with a 1968 Corvette engine should not use synthetic oil because this power plant likely will have a flat tappet camshaft. These lifters need zinc, and products designed for classic engines are readily available. Cars of this type need to be driven on periodic outings for at least 20 minutes and not started just to sit and idle. Moisture needs to be evaporated by getting everything mechanical up to operating temperatures.

A: Good information, but the reader didn’t explain what was done to the rebuilt Corvette engine. It may have gotten a cam and roller lifters. Yes, the oil should contain ZDDP for vintage engines.

Q: Neither my husband nor I understood something you recently wrote. We use Citgo, and the stations we go to state “Top Tier.” You said Citgo doesn’t meet Top Tier standard. Can you clarify your reply?

A: I stand corrected. Citgo is Top Tier. Some gas stations dispense unbranded gasoline even though the sign may be that of a well-known brand. If so, there should be a label on the pump noting that.

Bob Weber is a writer, mechanic and ASE-certified Master Automobile Technician. His writing has appeared in automotive trade publications, Consumer Guide and Consumers Digest. Send automotive questions along with name and town to motormouth.tribune@gmail.com.