Is Synthetic Oil Worth The Additional Cost?

One question that continues to float around the automotive world involves synthetic oil. Synthetic oil can be expensive. Therefore, many people wonder if it is worth the cost or if it is better to choose an alternative that is more affordable. Experts generally agree that there are a number of benefits associated with using synthetic oil, like the positive impacts that it has on a car’s engine. Learning more about synthetic oil and its advantages is crucial to helping you make an informed decision about what to put in your own vehicle.

What Is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oils have superior additives in them that keep the oil in good condition over time. Typically, high performance vehicles require the use of synthetic oil. However, auto manufacturers are increasingly turning toward synthetic blends (which are more affordable) or synthetic oils themselves because of the benefits associated with the product.

How Does Conventional Oil Compare?

Synthetic oil takes care of your engine better than conventional oil, according to information released by AAA. There are a number of benefits associated with using synthetic oil. For example, if you live in an area where it gets either very hot or very cold, synthetic oil helps to protect your car’s engine more effectively because it does not break down as quickly. If you have an older car, synthetic oil can keep sludge from accumulating in the engine, which can have disastrous consequences for your car.

Do you drive short distances? Conventional oil may break down more quickly because it just doesn’t have time to get hot enough to do the job it was meant to do. Also, if you carry around heavy material in your vehicle, synthetic oil is the better choice. It takes longer to break down, which means that it is more efficient for the work you are doing.

Why Is Synthetic Oil So Popular?

In addition to the benefits stated above, synthetic oil is popular because it lasts for a very long time. Years ago, you had to change your oil every three thousand miles. That has changed a little bit now, with some brands of oil lasting several thousand miles more than that. Synthetic oil takes things to the extreme, however. At minimum, you do not need to change the oil until you hit 15,000 miles, and some people believe you can go up to 25,000 miles. It is important to have an understanding of what the manufacturer recommends and then stick to that; for example, if it is recommended that you change the oil every six months, you should follow that recommendation.

While you need to make the decision on your own as to whether synthetic oil is worth the cost or not, there are a lot of advantages to using it. Not only does synthetic oil last longer than conventional oil, but it is good for the environment as well. At Ethan’s Honest Automotive, we’re happy to take a look at your vehicle and make recommendations for you. We’ll also handle all your oil changes and any other maintenance that you need on your car. Come see us today!