PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - Oil analysis, bypass filters, do you save $$?

braverichard · #3 04-17-2005, 02:01 PM

Jason,

I completely understand your feelings. In fact, someone once told me, "what's the point of spending $25 for an oil analysis when I can get an oil change done for that price?" (he drives a Toyota Camry). Anyway, his case was different from yours. Your oil analysis would allow you to see how long your oil will typically last before it is due for a change. You will spend more money upfront as you perform several analyses to determine that, but once you know the limit of your oil, you'll be all set and won't need further analyses. I don't think you need to install a bypass filter. From my oil analyses results, with Amsoil 15W-40, my 300SD will need an oil change every 8,000 miles (with a filter change at 4,000 miles and the oil topped off at the same time). So that comes out to two oil changes for 15,000 miles (in your case, one year). This is with the stock oil filter, so I'm convinced that you don't need to install a bypass filter. Like phantoms already said, the stock filter is a full flow and bypass filter.