Nowadays, the popularity of synthetic oil is on the rise. Car owners are switching to this oil for its advantages over traditional mineral-based oils. The best compounds and molecules of crude oil are used to make synthetic oil.
It is a great alternative to regular oil as it reduces the reliance on natural resources and also helps in conserving the environment. Because of this, synthetic oil has become a popular choice for drivers. Many experienced tire shop technicians believe that synthetic oil has better performance, and you can use it for a longer time between oil changes.
But is synthetic oil really better than traditional mineral-based oils? So, let’s know its types and look at the pros and cons of synthetic oil.
Types of Synthetic Oil
There are two types of synthetic oil, full synthetic and semi-synthetic.
Full Synthetic Oil
Full Synthetic oil uses a synthetic base stock, a refined product made from crude oil. The synthetic base stock is combined with additives to create a lubricant that meets the American Petroleum Institute (API) standards.
This oil is designed to meet the highest performance standards. It offers better protection against wear and tear, helps in conserving fuel, and reduces emissions.
Semi-Synthetic Oil
Semi-synthetic oil is a combination of synthetic and mineral-based oils. It is designed to offer a balance of performance and protection. On the economic side, the semi-synthetic has an advantage. It is cheaper than full synthetic oil and is also a good choice for drivers who want to conserve the environment.
Advantages of Synthetic Oil
When you compare synthetic oil to conventional oil, there are several advantages that synthetic oil has to offer.
Highly Viscous
The nature of synthetic oil is such that it is highly viscous. It resists thinning in high temperatures and does not break down as quickly. As a result, it gives better protection against wear and tear.
Your car will be able to start easily in cold weather and will run smoothly even in the hottest temperatures. However, the regular oil will break down and thicken in cold weather, making it difficult for your engine to start. In synthetic oil, it ensures that the oil film remains consistent, essential for engine protection.
Less Evaporative
One of the biggest problems with regular oil is that it evaporates quickly. This can cause a loss of lubrication and can also contaminate the engine. Synthetic oil does not evaporate as quickly, meaning that it will remain in the engine for a longer time. There is less exhaust smoke and less contamination which is beneficial for the engine and the environment.
Using synthetic oil can be a good gesture to the environment as it helps reduce the reliance on natural resources. We care for our planet, and making our vehicles environment is one the best things to do.
Long-Lasting
Synthetic oil is known to last longer than traditional mineral-based oils. This is because it does not break down as easily and does not thicken in cold weather. The interval changes will depend on the make and model of your car, driving habits, and the type of synthetic oil used. But, generally speaking, you can go for up to 5000 to 8000 miles.
The long duration is that synthetic oil can resist high temperatures and degradation. And you will be able to go for a longer time between oil changes.
Less Contaminable
Another advantage of synthetic oil is that it is less contaminable. When the oil breaks down, it can release harmful toxins. These toxins can cause damage to the environment and also to your car. Synthetic oil does not break down as quickly, meaning that there will be less release of harmful toxins.
Also, your engine will be less likely to suffer from contamination. The invention of synthetic oil is to counter the disadvantages of mineral oil.
Disadvantages of Synthetic Oil
Man-made things are not always perfect, and there are pros and cons to it, which is also true for synthetic oil. The oil has a few drawbacks, but they aren’t really deal-breakers. So, here are some of its restrictions:
More Expensive
Synthetic oil is more expensive than regular mineral-based oil. But, when you consider all the benefits that it offers, the price is worth it. High-quality oil is essential for the health of your car and can save you money in the long run.
Let’s take it this way; if you buy a less expensive oil, you will have to change it more often, upto every 3000 miles. If you go for a high-quality, synthetic oil, you may be able to go for 6000-8000 miles without changing the oil. So, in the long run, synthetic oil saves you money.
Prevent Breaking in for New Cars
People believe that synthetic oil should not be used in new cars. This is because synthetic oil can prevent the engine from breaking in properly. New vehicles need time to form a proper seal, and synthetic oil can prevent this from happening.
Hence, the engine may not run as smoothly or as efficiently as it should. Therefore, it is best to stick to the regular mineral-based oil for the first few thousand miles and then switch to synthetic oil.
Incompatible With Most Old Car Models
The synthetic oil is not compatible with most old car models. The seals in older cars are not as strong as in newer cars. Most old models use deposits from the mineral oil to help form a seal in the engine.
Since synthetic oil does not have these deposits, it can’t create a proper seal in the engine. Thus, it may not run as smoothly or as efficiently as it should. Therefore, it is best to stick to the regular mineral-based oil for the older models.
In Conclusion
Are you planning to reduce your dependency on oil? Consider using synthetic oil!
Synthetic oil is an excellent choice for your car as it has many advantages over traditional mineral-based oils. It is more durable, less contaminable, and longer-lasting. It is expensive but saves you money in the long run. Before using any oil in your car, please consult with auto repair technicians in Tulsa to be sure of the right choice for you and your car.
If you’re looking for a reliable auto repair service in Tulsa, Same Day Auto Repair is the place to go. They provide wide-ranging services, from oil changes to engine repairs, and help you with whatever your car needs.