I have seen tons of infomercials that talk up these products, but has anyone used any of these products? Are they even close to what they say they can do? Or should I just stick to synthetic oil?

 

:spock voice:

Logic dictates that these companies spend more on marketing than on R&D. Thus confidence in such products remains low. Logic dictates the use of synthetics. Using something else would be illogical.

 

what are synthetics?

 

:spock voice:

Ask Scottie.

 

 

you are so right......hey what about that tiny little disclaimer at the bottom of the screen on their commercials that tells you to " always follow manufactures recommendations"

last time i check the manufactures didn't want us to run out cars with no oil in them

 

Alright, now I reveal what a geek I am. Spock never called Scottie "Scottie." It was always "Mr. Scott" or "Engineer Scott."

 

The US Federal Trade Commission has cracked down on the false advertising done by many marketers of engine oil additives. See, for instance, http://www.ftc.gov/opa/1999/9909/prolong.htm . Here are some quotes from that Web page...

For Release: September 2, 1999
Prolong Super Lubricants Settles FTC Charges

Performance Claims for Motor Oil Additive Were Unsubstantiated

Prolong Super Lubricants, Inc., marketer of one of the largest selling motor oil additives sold in the U. S., has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that the firm made unsubstantiated claims for its automobile motor oil additive, Prolong Engine Treatment Concentrate (ETC). Prolong Super Lubricants, Inc. is based in Irvine, California.
...
This settlement is the latest in a series of FTC law-enforcement initiatives targeting claims made by engine treatment manufacturers. The Commission recently charged the marketers of Dura Lube and Motor Up with making unsubstantiated claims for their brands of motor oil additives. Those complaints are awaiting administrative trial. The FTC previously halted allegedly deceptive advertising by the marketers of Valvoline, Slick 50, and STP, other major brands of engine treatment products.

 

Thanks a bunch for the info!