I saw a picture of a filter taken apart and with an easily visible speck of metal. I'm not sure how they took it apart but trust them as they were trying to chase down the sound (that since disappeared). I purposely only did 1,500 miles before changing the oil myself and used a Toyota filter (same as the shop).
Interesting, I didn't know the recommended viscosity is higher in other countries. I don't have any leaks currently (knock on wood) but the incident in January and then Blackstone calling out the increase in Lead explicitly in their comments gave me some worry.
So what I'm understanding from you is that perhaps going with 10W-40 may reduce that wear? Hope you have a positive report coming.
@chbrow10 sorry but I couldn't view your comment if you left one.