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I bought a new 08 Honda Civic sedan. I currently have 3300 miles on it. I commute a round trip of 82 miles (mainly I drive from sea level to 4000 feet, mountain driving for the most part. Oil reminder is at 60%.. That’s how I drive and should give you enough information to answer my questions below. And yes, I’ve read the posts in this group regarding first oil change.

Q1. Should I really depend on the oil system monitor or when should I go in for my first oil change (Is the Honda “Break in oil” really that special??)?
I talked with the Dealer’s service department when I should come in for my first oil change. They said you want to go by the oil reminder % and said that it will be around 5000 miles.

I must admit, I’m stressed. Pass vehicles (Ford, Chevy and Dodge) I’ve made the first oil change at 500 miles, next one 2000 miles later, and then I make the switch to Mobil-1 around the 5-6000 mark.

Honda is telling me (and I’ve seen it mentioned here too) that they use a special oil during the break in period and you really want to go by the oil monitor on the vehicle when it’s time for my first oil change. Assume the “Special break-in oil” is true; at what oil monitor mark should I go in for my first oil change?

Q2) After I make the oil change, at what mileage should I make the switch to Mobil-1 (I’m a fan of Mobil-1. Been using it for years and years.)? How long could I stick with Honda’s conventional l oil before making the switch to Mobil-1?

 
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Stick with the dealer recommended break-in period or 5,000 miles, whichever comes first. As to what additives and detergents Honda puts in their intial spurt of dino ****, I have no idea.

As far as your second question, you can switch to M1 whenever you feel like it. There is no set time period after the first oil change to make the switch.

 
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Yes Honda does in fact use special break-in oil. I have no idea what they add, but it is different. My cousin is a mechanic at Acura, and that's what he's told me, plus I have other friends who are mechanics at Honda, who tell me the same thing.