Synthetic motor oil has been around and popular for decades. However, some car owners still choose to put conventional motor oil in their vehicles. While conventional oil is not a bad choice, it does not have as many benefits as synthetic oil.
Yet, to make the best decision for you and your vehicle, you need to have all of the information. That is where this guide can help. In it, we will tell you everything you need to know about the benefits of synthetic oil vs. conventional motor oil.
Let’s get started!
What is Conventional Motor Oil?
Because conventional motor oil is the older method of providing lubrication to our cars, we will begin with that definition first. Some people may also refer to conventional oil as crude oil. Essentially, crude oil is a natural resource extracted from the ground. It undergoes a refining process that involves separating and purifying its components to produce various petroleum-based products, including motor oil.
Because it comes from nature, conventional oil has molecules of varying sizes. This variation means that it does not always react reliably when used over a wide range of temperatures. Manufacturers do use chemical additives to improve conventional oil’s inconsistencies. However, it will still be less reliable than synthetic oil.
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Unlike conventional oil, synthetic oil is made in a lab. Scientists make synthetic oil by chemically modifying and refining base oils to produce a lubricant with enhanced properties and performance characteristics. Synthetic oil has been available since the 1960s. However, it did not start to increase in popularity until the 1980s. By the late 20th century, it was the go-to choice for many motorists.
There are several types of synthetic motor oils, each formulated with specific base oils. We list the different types of synthetic oil below. Each will be formulated to meet the diverse needs of different engines and driving conditions.
Keep in mind that this is not a comprehensive list of synthetic oil types. Instead, these are the most popular varieties of synthetic oil currently on the market.
- Full synthetic oil: Full synthetic oils are made entirely from synthetic base oils, such as polyalphaolefins (PAO) or esters. These synthetic oils offer excellent high-temperature stability and are ideal for a wide range of vehicles, including high-performance engines.
- Synthetic blend oil: Synthetic blend oils, also known as semi-synthetic oils, are a mix of synthetic base oils and conventional mineral oils. This product provides some of the benefits of full synthetic oils, but they are more affordable.
- High-mileage synthetic oil: Manufacturers design high-mileage synthetic oils for vehicles with higher mileage, typically those that have surpassed 75,000 miles. These synthetic oils usually have additional additives and can reduce engine wear, oil leaks, and seal conditioning.
- High-performance synthetic oil: These synthetic oils will be less common to or needed by the average on-the-road driver, but they work perfectly for high-performance and racing vehicles.
- Different viscosity grades: Synthetic oils come in a variety of viscosity grades, including 0W-20, 5W-30, 10W-40, and more. These numbers indicate their flow characteristics at different temperatures. You can find the viscosity grade recommended for your vehicle in your owner’s manual.
- Fuel-efficient synthetic oil: These synthetic oils are formulated with additives to improve fuel efficiency by reducing internal engine friction and enhancing engine efficiency.
Your owner’s manual should indicate which types of synthetic motor oil are right for your vehicle. However, if you have any questions, you can discuss the issue with a trusted mechanic, such as those at Ethan’s Honest Automotive. Our experts are well-versed in all types of motor oil and can help you pick the option that is best for your engine and driving style.
Benefits of Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil
Synthetic oil indeed has more benefits than conventional oil. However, you may not be familiar with these benefits, especially if you have always used conventional oil. Here are a few of the most popular benefits of synthetic oil vs. conventional oil.
- Improved viscosity: As we have already mentioned in this guide, synthetic oils work more consistently when the temperature varies. They have uniform molecules, which allows the oil to flow more smoothly, even at extreme temperatures.
- Enhanced engine protection: While both synthetic and conventional oils have additives that improve their performance, synthetic oil will protect your engine. It provides the most optimal lubrication, protecting your car against wear and tear.
- Improved fuel efficiency: The low viscosity of most synthetic oils improves their fuel efficiency. They reduce the amount of friction in the engine, meaning the engine is not working as hard to run your car. Better fuel efficiency also makes for a more environmentally friendly vehicle. So, this type of motor oil is good for your wallet and the environment. It is a win-win scenario.
- Extended oil change intervals: Because synthetic oil can withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, it will remain stable longer than conventional oil. As a result, synthetic oil can often go longer between oil changes compared to conventional oil. Less oil changes mean fewer trips to the mechanic and more money in your pocket.
- Compatibility with modern engines: As modern engines become more advanced, they require highly specialized motor oil to run correctly. Manufacturers can refine their synthetic oil manufacturing process to ensure the oil meets the demands of modern engines. They cannot change conventional motor oil in this way.
Overall, the choice between synthetic oil and conventional oil is a crucial decision for vehicle owners, impacting engine performance, longevity, and overall driving experience. Synthetic oil, with its advanced formulation and superior properties, offers a range of benefits that make it a compelling option for many car enthusiasts and everyday drivers. However, synthetic oil, especially full synthetic oil, is more expensive than conventional motor oil. Still, the many benefits of synthetic oil often outweigh the greater upfront costs.
If you are still wondering which choice is right for your vehicle, contact the experts at Ethan’s Honest Automotive today. We are the Cache Valley and Southeastern Idaho’s source for excellent vehicle maintenance and repair services. Our professionals can work on any vehicle, and so can easily recommend the motor oil that is right for you.
