So the results from my used engine oil analysis came back...

[Imperator]

I decided to have an oil analysis performed on the CTS-V to test the validity of GM's Oil Life Monitor system. First employed in the C5, the OLM records driving habits and the values of several sensors to calculate the useful life of protective additives in the crankcase.

After 7,600 miles on the standard fill (7qts Mobil 1 5W-30), the OLM indicated 7%. My previous oil change occurred in early May, so this sample was used for daily driving duty during the peak summer months. I believe this was the seventh-hottest summer on record for Dallas, with 43 days of 100 degrees or more. My driving habits were mixed... some mild, but mostly hard, averaging 14.7 MPG as I was trying to accelerate the wear on the factory Goodyear runflats.

I just got these results today. What surprised me, aside from the fact that the OLM was just about dead-on, was that some of the wear metals were still high, suggesting break-in is not entirely complete. The comments section mentions that this may only be the second or third oil change in the life of the car, which is just about right... actually, this sample is the fourth oil change since new.

Despite my hard driving and use of a K&N panel filter, the oil shows very low trace values of fuel and silicon (dirt). It still had some protective Molybenum left, viscosity numbers looked about right (but definitely sheared back), and it gave me a little peace of mind. By the way, the dipstick level hardly changed since the fill, so it's nice knowing this motor only consumes gasoline.

[GOTTSPD]

That's great. Thanks for doing it and sharing!

[patentguy]

How much does the analysis cost?

[MissouriRed06V]

$18 for basic, more for TBN

[calicadi]

Thanks for doing this! It's great to have second-party verification of builder's sensor claims.

It's also reassuring to know my extra oil changes were not a waste. Even if the high-milage claims of synthetics are valid, I never felt comfortable taking oil changes to the limit with a new engine. I changed oil and filter at 3,037, 6,575, and 11,299.

[VELOSE]

Talking about oil changes, I need to check if I'm due again.

Thanks for assuring me that Cadillac did something right with the V.

Sent zoints your way imperator.

[rand49er]

Very interesting ... thanks for the report.

(I must admit, I was looking for "Gold" as I read the list ... darn! )

[JonCR96Z]

Originally Posted by VELOSE

Thanks for assuring me that Cadillac did something right with the V.

Its only because GM has been running these engines for nearly 10 years. Maybe in 7 more years the rear end will be up to par too.

[Slywun]

Thanks for sharing and distributing the 'peace of mind'. (Points)

[C66 Racing]

Nice sample for 7,600 miles on a relatively new motor. Thanks for sharing that with us.