Is this a washer on the drain plug? I didn't notice it had one when I was doing my oil change

 

Yes, on the drain plug. Chances are that it doesn't matter. I have friends that used the same washer for 100k with no problem. I won't be changing the washer on my Lancer unless it starts leaking oil.

Might be worth checking at the next oil change. If yours is missing, buy one and install it.

 

Yes, it was there, the factory paint fused it together with bolt. I agree with you

that it doesn't require a new one every oil change however new or used, people

should check for leaks when oil pressurizes.

 

The mitsu oil filters have a damper in them that prevents the oil from back flowing out of engine after turning the vehicle off. This prevents dry start ups. May want to verify that the aftermarket oil filters contain this same type of damper to increase the engine life. The effects won't be seen immediately but will surely be noticed down the road.

 

well... in the end I dont see much gain from switching to synthetic just yet. Besides, if you do blow your engine you got nothing to worry about. The warranty should cover it

anything else interesting about oils? What about Neo Synthetic for the tranny? I used Neo synthetic in almost all the cars I've driven. Whether its mine or my moms. Neo has been terrific, and YES you could feel the difference.

K&N filters are also great, but I wouldnt leave any filter for over 3.2k miles or a long trip. Id take my chances and spend a couple bucks... :P

 

Engines that are designed for different oil really should have the oil they were designed for. Bearing clearances, seals, maintenance schedules, .... etc are all derived around what they need. I wish this question could get an official answer from someone other than my local Mitsu srevicedept. that doesn't seem to really know anything about the car yet. Anyone have a dealer shop manual yet? That might specify the correct oil.

 

I just put in a PM to the member I know that has access to his dealership's FSM. We'll see if he posts up.

 

From the 2008 Lancer FSM:

Specified Engine Oil: Engine oils displaying ILSAC certification symbol ("Starburst" symobol) or conforming to the API classification SM or higher.

Total quantity: 4.3dm^3 (4.52 quarts)

NOTE: SAE 5W-20 engine oil is strongly recommended for optimum fuel economy and cold starting. SAE 10W-30 may be used when the normal operating temperature is above 30 degrees C (100 degrees F).

 

i wish i knew how to change my own oil...i've been waiting for maywood mitsubishi to get back to me about an oil change and alignment... pretty $hitty service IMO

 

If you want, you can come change it with me at my house. It's definitely not Maywood Mitsubishi... work actually gets done in my garage. LoL.

 

What mileage are you at?

 

No mention of synthetic vs. non-synthetic?

 

here in Puerto Rico my oil change its for free !!!

 

with the service interval at 7500 miles I am still thinking synthetic or synthetic blend.

 

That is a damn good point.