We get the question “what is the difference between synthetic and conventional oil?” quite a lot and figured we’d take some time to address it. Simply put, the most important difference between synthetic and conventional oil is that synthetic oil is a man-made oil and therefore has less impurities than the natural counter-part. Which type of oil is best? Well, that depends on a few factors.
What is Synthetic Oil?
Synthetic oil is man-made motor oil that is created in a laboratory. It is made from chemical compounds that are artificially made to replicate the natural oil we call conventional oil. In the controlled environment of a lab, scientists can create a substance which delivers more consistent lubrication with less particles leading to a more pure and effective motor oil.
Is Synthetic Oil Better than Conventional Oil?
Here’s where things get tricky and it’s best to consult with your local Maryland mechanic in order to determine which oil is truly “better”. This is because the answer will depend on your individual vehicle. Newer vehicles 99% of the time will be using synthetic oils, but as we start to look at older vehicles we’ll see that they tend to use semi-synthetic or even conventional oils because they aren’t as free-flowing. In other words, older vehicles sometimes need thicker oils because their parts aren’t as tightly sealed as they once were.
What Makes Synthetic Oil Better?
Synthetic oil is a better oil because it performs better in cold temperatures. Additionally, synthetics are resistant to breaking down due to high heat or friction. With a lower viscosity, you will need to change your oil less because it doesn’t burn off as fast. Lastly, synthetic oils are much more pure and provide more consistent lubrication to the internal parts of an engine. This means there will be less wear-and-tear on your engine.
Should I Use Synthetic or Conventional Oil?
When it comes to ultimately deciding which type of oil to use for your vehicle, the choice will predominantly be to pick a synthetic or synthetic-blend motor oil. That said, we strongly suggest you consult with your Maryland auto mechanic before switching up which motor oil you put in your vehicle. The benefit of going to your same, trusted mechanic every time is that they know your vehicle and can provide recommendations to ensure it lasts longer.
Whether your car is old or new, uses synthetic or conventional oil, it’s best to have it changed and serviced by a professional. Here at Hillmuth, we answer questions like this all the time so if you have any questions concerning your vehicle, get in touch with us today. Hillmuth Auto Care is a full-service Maryland auto service center with 4 service stations in Columbia, Gaithersburg, Glenwood, and Clarksville, MD. To schedule an appointment, fill out the form on our website or call your nearest location today!
