September 25, 2024

SYNTHETIC OIL – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Synthetic oil is a type of motor oil that is made from chemically modified base oils. It offers several benefits over conventional motor oil, including better performance in extreme temperatures, improved fuel economy, and longer engine life. Here’s everything you need to know about synthetic oil:

  1. What is synthetic oil? Synthetic oil is a man-made lubricant that is designed to offer better performance and protection for your engine than conventional motor oil. It is made from a combination of base oils and chemical additives that provide superior lubrication and protect against engine wear and tear.
  2. How is synthetic oil made? Synthetic oil is made from a combination of base oils, which are usually polyalphaolefin (PAO) or synthetic esters. These base oils are then combined with a variety of chemical additives, such as detergents, anti-wear agents, and friction modifiers, to create a motor oil that provides superior performance and protection for your engine.
  3. What are the benefits of synthetic oil? Synthetic oil offers several benefits over conventional motor oil, including:
  • Improved performance in extreme temperatures: Synthetic oil flows more easily in cold temperatures and maintains its viscosity in high temperatures, providing better protection for your engine.
  • Better fuel economy: Synthetic oil reduces friction in your engine, which can improve fuel economy and reduce emissions.

  • Longer engine life: Synthetic oil provides better protection against engine wear and tear, which can help your engine last longer and require fewer repairs.
  • Reduced oil consumption: Synthetic oil is more stable than conventional motor oil, so it breaks down more slowly and lasts longer between oil changes.
  • Improved engine cleanliness: Synthetic oil contains detergents that help keep your engine clean and prevent the buildup of sludge and other deposits.
  1. Is synthetic oil more expensive than conventional oil? Yes, synthetic oil is generally more expensive than conventional motor oil. However, the benefits of synthetic oil can outweigh the higher cost in terms of improved engine performance and longer engine life.
  2. Can synthetic oil be used in any engine? Synthetic oil can be used in most engines, including those that are designed to use conventional motor oil. However, it is important to check your vehicle owner’s manual to ensure that synthetic oil is recommended for your engine.
  3. How often should synthetic oil be changed? The recommended oil change interval for synthetic oil varies depending on the type of vehicle and the manufacturer’s recommendations. However, synthetic oil typically lasts longer than conventional motor oil and may only need to be changed every 7,500 to 10,000 miles.

Overall, synthetic oil is a high-performance motor oil that offers several benefits over conventional motor oil. It may be more expensive, but the improved engine performance, longer engine life, and better fuel economy can make it a worthwhile investment for many drivers.

What are the disadvantages of synthetic oil?

While synthetic oil has many advantages over conventional oil, it also has a few disadvantages, such as:

  1. Cost: Synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional oil, which can be a disadvantage for budget-conscious consumers.
  2. Potential for leaks: Synthetic oil has smaller molecules, which can potentially cause it to seep through small gaps in gaskets or seals that conventional oil would not. This can lead to leaks in older engines that were not designed for synthetic oil.
  3. Compatibility issues: Some synthetic oils are not compatible with certain types of engine seals or gaskets, which can cause them to deteriorate over time and potentially cause leaks.
  4. Oil consumption: Some high-mileage engines that have been using conventional oil for a long time may consume more synthetic oil due to the smaller molecule size and increased flow rate.
  5. Environmental impact: While synthetic oil is often touted as being more environmentally friendly, it is still made from non-renewable resources and requires energy-intensive manufacturing processes. The disposal of synthetic oil can also be a concern if it is not recycled properly.

Overall, synthetic oil is a high-quality lubricant that can provide numerous benefits for modern engines, but it may not be the best choice for every application. It’s important to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and consider the specific needs of your engine before deciding whether synthetic oil is right for you.

When not to use synthetic oil?

While synthetic oil is generally recommended for its superior performance, there are a few situations where it might not be the best choice:

  1. Older Vehicles with High Mileage: Vehicles that have always used conventional oil and have higher mileage (especially older cars built before the 1990s) might not benefit from switching to synthetic oil. The enhanced detergents in synthetic oil could dislodge sludge that has formed over time, leading to leaks in older seals or gaskets.
  2. Engines with Oil Leaks: If a vehicle has an existing oil leak, synthetic oil may worsen it due to its lower viscosity and ability to flow more easily, potentially leading to increased oil consumption or leak severity.
  3. Cost Sensitivity: Synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional oil. If the vehicle doesn’t require synthetic oil and budget is a primary concern, conventional or semi-synthetic oil may be a better choice, especially for vehicles with low performance demands.
  4. Specific Manufacturer Recommendations: Some car manufacturers may specify conventional or specific types of oils for their engines. It’s always important to follow the manufacturer’s oil requirements to avoid voiding warranties or causing potential engine damage.
  5. Break-in Period for New Engines: Some experts recommend using conventional oil during the break-in period for new engines, as it allows parts to wear in properly. After the break-in period, switching to synthetic oil can be done.

In general, it’s essential to consult the owner’s manual for oil recommendations specific to your vehicle’s engine.