When you get an oil change, it’s always a safe bet to just use the type of oil the automobile manufacturer recommends. But sometimes, when we’re asked if we’d like conventional or synthetic oil, we choose the cheaper one. That’s not always the best option.
What’s the Difference Between Conventional and Synthetic Oil?
Conventional oil is made from petroleum. Its molecules form long hydrocarbon chains. Synthetic motor oil is either more highly refined petroleum or completely man-made. Its molecules are more uniform. This provides essential advantages over conventional motor oil.
Synthetic motor oil has a molecular structure that makes it more slippery than conventional oil so it lubricates better. This translates to better wear protection for Washington DC drivers, cooler operating temperatures, more engine power and increased fuel economy.
Further, synthetic oil is more heat-resistant than conventional oil, and it doesn’t vaporize as easily. It provides better protection for severe conditions like stop-and-go driving around Washington DC and very hot or freezing DC temperatures.
Also, synthetic oil doesn’t generate dangerous oil sludge like conventional oil. This prevents small engine passageways from becoming clogged, which can significantly extend the working life of your late model vehicle engine.
What are the Advantages of Synthetic Oil?
Manufacturers are aware of the advantages of synthetic oil, and many of them are using it to fill their late model vehicles before delivering them to be sold. Many vehicle manufacturer’s owner’s manuals now come with the recommendation to use only synthetic oil. Because synthetic oil wears better and protects better than conventional motor oil, it can be changed less often. If your late model vehicle came with a recommendation for synthetic oil, you may have noticed that the recommended period between oil changes is longer.
On the other hand, if you are using conventional oil and you switch to synthetic oil, you may be able to lengthen the time between oil changes. Check with your service advisor about oils and service intervals based on your driving habits and requirements.
Synthetic oil is more expensive, yes, but it can pay for itself by lasting longer than conventional oil. And when you add in the hidden savings of an extended engine life and improved MPG, not to mention increased engine power, there’s a good chance that synthetic oil actually saves in the long run.
Oil change in DC is the hallmark of important preventive maintenance at Metro Motor. Give us a call.
Vehicle care information made available by Metro Motor is presented as helpful advice for general maintenance and should not be construed as instructions for at-home vehicle service. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual and a licensed, professional mechanic for diagnostics and repair.