Here are a couple of somewhat conflicting items from Consumers Reports with references to synthetic oil use. Seems you should use it if you have a sludge prone engine, otherwise save your money unless of course it's specified by the car manufacturer. Has anyone ever heard of sludge problems with the TCH engine?

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/c...view/index.htm

QUOTE:- CR MAINTENANCE SUGGESTIONS

Service your car on schedule to help prevent costly problems later on.


Shop around for quotes on routine maintenance. Prices can vary significantly.


Make it clear to the dealer that you want only those maintenance services performed that are listed in the owner’s manual. Many dealerships create their own recommended maintenance schedules for new vehicles, which are often larded with unnecessary and expensive work.


Keep tires correctly inflated and rotated on schedule to avoid premature wear.


Change oil only at the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended intervals. Lube shops often push more frequent service.

Don’t spend extra money on synthetic oil unless your car calls for it.

Consider doing simple procedures yourself, such as changing oil and coolant.


When you wash your car, clean the rubber wiper blades. They’ll last longer.


Don’t pay extra for premium gas if your car calls for regular.

REPAIR

Have your vehicle looked at as soon as you notice a strange noise or small change in its operation.


Get a quote before any service work is done.


Consider having simple procedures done by an independent repair shop,
which may be cheaper.


Keep records of repairs. Such proof may help you get more money for your vehicle when you sell it.