Oil Change Comparison: Synthetic vs. Non-Synthetic
Drivers in North Port, Sarasota, and Fort Myers know how important it is to change their vehicle’s oil regularly, but it’s also important to make sure that your car gets the right kind of oil.
All cars need a specific type of oil to ensure performance and longevity. Two of the most common are synthetic and conventional, but what’s the difference between them?
To find out, check out this comparison of synthetic vs. conventional oil provided by Port Charlotte Honda.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is the type you need if you just bought a brand new car. Known for its impressive lubrication and protective properties, synthetic oil is considered a high-quality product ideal for new cars, high-performance vehicles, and luxury cars.
This type of oil is refined as well as distilled, purified, and broken down into basic molecules to reduce imperfections from the crude oil it’s made from. It also includes ingredients and properties that are designed for more modern engines. On top of that, synthetic oil can work well in both high and low temperatures to ensure engine protection year-round.
As stated previously, synthetic oil caters to new cars with modern engines. However, this can also benefit vehicles that consistently travel in severe conditions. For example, if you commute in stop-and-go traffic, extreme temperatures, etc., synthetic oil can provide the extensive protection and lubrication needed to extend the life of your engine.
In addition, synthetic oil’s quality and high breakdown resistance provide longer oil change intervals. Vehicles using this type of fluid will have to get it changed about every 6,000 miles. To determine the exact oil change intervals you should follow for your car, check your owner’s manual.
Conventional Oil
Conventional oil is an adequate option for all vehicles, but it’s mainly used for older vehicles with low mileage. Conventional oil offers good protection and lubrication but isn’t distilled or purified as much as the alternative and therefore may have more impurities.
Conventional oil does, however, have certain additives to boost its overall quality. These help it achieve the right heat tolerance, breakdown resistance, and viscosity for particular engines.
Because conventional oil doesn’t provide the same high-quality performance as synthetic oil, vehicles powered by this fluid will need to schedule oil changes more frequently. It’s recommended to change conventional oil every 3,000 miles, depending on the engine. Be sure to check your owner’s manual to see the exact oil change interval you need to follow.
Other Types of Oil
Synthetic and conventional oil aren’t the only types of oil available. Below are other oil options to consider.
- High mileage oil: This provides protection and lubrication for vehicles with more than 75,000 miles.
- Synthetic blend oil: This is a mixture of both synthetic and conventional, and it’s ideal for preventing damage from cold startups, fluctuating weather, and long engine running times.
Which Oil Is Right for You?
Every type of car needs specific engine oil to extend its longevity, deliver optimum performance, and ensure its health. So be sure to use this guide to find out which is best for your car. And as always, check your owner’s manual for the exact type of oil your vehicle needs.
For more information about synthetic vs. conventional oil, contact Port Charlotte Honda, near Fort Myers, Sarasota, and North Port, and speak to our automotive services experts today!