I didn't know the manual was a Chrysler unit. As I originally said the car is a loaner. Like you said changing the oil should be a no brainer. If I had a lift I'd do it myself. My VW mechanic said he'd do it if I was willing to wait a couple of weeks, which I am. There's always a backlog to see him. The car's got 120K plus miles on it and I'll bet it's never been changed, so improvement or not, it needs it. Using Redline in my VW 5 speed made a noticable improvement. Much smoother, and easier shifting. I definitely understand the"clunkier" description so changing the oil may/may not have an improvement but it's the least I can do to thank her for lending it.