I'm picking up my new '99 1.8T this week.<p>How long should I wait before switching to synthetic oil ?

When checking the archives, it seems that there are varying opinions. Chances are, most modern engines are 60% broken in at the factory. They want to ensure that we won't run the crap out the engine pre-maturely, but most of the wear is done at factory, as well as seating of rings. Plus, this is better for them as a company.<p>Anyway, you could probably do it right away. I'm going to get my 22500 mile oil change (3rd oil change) done in January (which is 1.25 years after buying the car) with Mobil 1 full synthetic. I'll ask them if they can get it and give me a partial credit toward the synthetic. They probably won't, but it's worth a shot.<p><br>Chris Murphy<br>1998 A4 2.8QM Pearl

You should definetely NOT do it right away. A minimum of 7000 mi. If you want to learn about synthetics then check out Chris' web page at <br>www.geocities.com/MotorCity/2195/index.html<br>And look at the menu at the bottom of the page. Good stuff.