Wanting to switch to synthetic

2002 6cyl Tacoma 130,000mi

I've been going to the dealer for conventional oil changes since I got my truck a few years ago. My dad keeps telling me to switch to synthetic and do it myself. Is it safe to switch, or will the engine start leaking?

 

I got it at 55,000 miles point back on 2016... and switched all the fluids to BG products at toyota dealership, super smooth , now at the 93,000 i noticed oil at cover gaskets but this forum and other 4 runners owners said ... that this 3.4 engine ....the issue with the gaskets , “is normal” so i dont worry about it, however last visit to dealer in april i asked them if they see any leak and they said , nope, all good , passed inspection , installed new rims... good to go.... im usiing Mobil 1 / 20,000 miles / 1 year protection, and the 115 MOA bg additive, changing oil only every April, i do it myself

 

Leaks from synthetic are a thing of the past. They put conditioners in the oil that keep the gaskets and seals more flexible and reduce shrinkage (not the George Costanza shrinkage). Go ahead and swap.

I’d NEVER do one of those 10k or worse 20k oil changes.

 

I have a leak at my valve cover gasket, dealer quoted me $900 to change. Need to find somewhere else to do it.