Synthetic Oil vs Conventional Oil: What’s the Difference?

If it seems difficult to get a clear answer on synthetic oil vs conventional, you are not alone. Mechanics and auto parts stores seem to cloud their explanations in technical language and “consult your manual” caveats. There’s the confusing part about synthetic oil being petroleum-based. How is that synthetic? Then we cringe at the price difference.

It is true both synthetic and conventional oil are petroleum at their core. Conventional oil is mixed with additives that keep the oil’s viscosity consistent at temperature extremes. It stays thin when it’s cold so your engine starts smoothly. It stays thick at high temperatures to properly lubricate your running engine. Synthetics are chemically engineered instead of blended with additives. This creates oil with very different properties.

Synthetic’s Major Advantage: Longevity

The first major advantage synthetics have over conventional motor oils is lifespan. The additives in conventional oil break down in the intense heat and pressures of an engine, requiring they be replaced every 5,000 miles.

Some synthetics can last as long as 20,000 miles between changes. (This varies by brand and vehicle, so check your manual.) Oil’s secondary function is cleaning your engine. Even though synthetics retain viscosity past 20,000 miles, they become too dirty to be effective.

Is Synthetic Motor Oil Better for My Engine?

Independent reviews (including one by Consumer Reports) say yes. Synthetic oil provides better engine protection and performance. Synthetics can be engineered for the closer tolerances of modern high-performance engines. Additionally, the higher-quality synthetic production process eliminates impurities that are accepted in traditional oils. Synthetics are also less prone to engine-damaging oxidation and acidification.

Some High-Performance Vehicles Require Synthetics

Time to consult your vehicle’s manual and/or your dealership’s service technicians. Numerous car manufactures have designed high-performance engines specifically to take advantage of synthetic oil’s higher tolerances. This is especially true for turbocharged engines, which tend to run at higher temperatures that quickly destroy conventional oils.

Why Does Conventional Oil Still Exist?

With so many synthetic advantages, it’s natural to wonder why conventional oil still exists. Synthetics last longer, protect your engine better, and run cleaner than conventional oil. And when you add the cost of four 5,000-mile conventional oil changes to a single 20,000-mile synthetic oil change, the price seems the same.

Just about the only reason to stick with conventional oil is that many older engines don’t really gain an advantage from synthetics, so there’s no reason for owners of these cars to spend more on synthetic.

If you are considering synthetic oil for your vehicle, ask your service center technicians. Synthetics can vary widely between different producers. Your vehicle’s manufacturer will have specific recommendations for you. They will also factor in the climate and season where you are driving, as well as your personal driving style. The right oil is a major factor in the longevity and resale value of your car. Contact Flood Mazda today to get advice from experts on which oil is best.

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