So, i'm running at 250 degrees (engine oil) lately, and can't figure out why. And thats at 70 on the freeway. At stop and go speeds it cools down to about 210-220. I just changed the oil recently (mobil 1 5w30 synthetic). I do have an oil temp gauge, so the numbers are accurate. Can someone please help? Do I have a major engine failure about to start or something?

Oh and fyi, my water temp is about 180-190 at the same time. Although today it was 215, but it was the first 100 degree summer day this year, so 215 is somewhat normal.

 

Stop using synthetic for a while and see if that makes a difference also. You might want to consider a heavier weight too just for kicks to see what the differences are going to be.

 

don't synthetics handle heat better?

I'm using 10w-30 right now, what should i switch to?

 

yes.... synthetics handle heat better.

Try some Mobil 1 0-40W , or GC 5-30W

 

isn't the lower the number the thinner the oil?

fyi i have 132,000 on my car.

 

Is this the first summer you've had the gauge? That temp doesn't sound too high to me. Check on bobistheoilguy to see what the temps should be.

 

yes, but the first # is cold weight and the second # is hot weight.
i would suggest 0w40 as well, with newer stock engines you want a low cold weight # to lube the engine better on cold starts.
i would use GC 0w30, or M1 0w40.

the temp seem ok, a little warm but ok. the oil runs a little warmer then the coolant cause the oil helps cool the internal parts of the engine.
hope that helps.

 

a LOT of people have been telling me that i'm running about 30* too high. If thats not the case, then what is the danger zone for temp?

As for what oil to use.... I don't do cold starts. I have a remote starter on my car and ALWAYS warm it up before driving. I've never seen a 0w40, but i've never looked for it either.

 

Use regular oil.

 

why would i use regular oil if it doesn't handle heat as well as synthetics?