Many drivers wonder about the difference between conventional motor oil and synthetic oil, and which one they should choose during an oil change. They may also have an option for synthetic blend oil, which can add to the debate. 

The simple answer is … synthetic oil is better than conventional oil for your engine and, in the long run, better for your wallet. Yes, even for older vehicles. 

A synthetic blend can be a good option if you’re concerned about the cost of an oil change, or if you need to have your oil changed frequently due to driving conditions, heavy loads or vehicle requirements.

What is synthetic motor oil?

Synthetic motor oil is chemically engineered to have more uniform oil molecules with fewer impurities. As a result, synthetic oil has a higher resistance to oxidation and thermal breakdown and performs better in extreme high and low temperatures than conventional motor oil made from crude. 

Synthetic oil offers a number of advantages over conventional motor oil for almost any type of vehicle. Advantages of synthetic motor oil include: 

Enhanced Performance: Synthetic oils are engineered to have a more consistent and stable viscosity across a wide temperature range. This helps ensure optimal lubrication in both very hot and very cold environments, and everything in between.

Reduced Friction: The consistent molecular structure of synthetic oil reduces friction between moving engine parts, which can improve fuel efficiency and reduce wear and tear on engine components.

Cold-Weather Starts: Conventional oils can thicken in cold weather, which can make it more difficult to start the engine and provide immediate lubrication. Synthetic oils flow more easily at low temperatures, providing better cold-start performance and reducing engine wear during startup.

Resistance to Sludge and Deposits: Synthetic oils are less prone to forming sludge and engine deposits, helping to keep your engine cleaner and functioning optimally over time.

Extended Oil Change Intervals: Synthetic motor oils often have longer recommended oil change intervals compared to conventional oils. This means that you may be able to change your oil less frequently, which will save you money in the long run. (It’s still important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific vehicle.)

Improved Fuel Efficiency: Due to reduced friction and improved engine efficiency, synthetic motor oils can help improve fuel economy in some cases.

Environmental Impact: Synthetic oils are often considered to have a lower environmental impact because they are manufactured to have fewer impurities and contaminants. Longer intervals between oil changes means less oil to dispose of, as well. 

What is synthetic blend motor oil?

As the name suggests, synthetic blend motor oil is a blend of conventional motor oil made from a combination of crude and man-made synthetic oil. Because of its synthetic properties, synthetic blend oil, like full synthetic oil, provides added resistance to oxidation (compared to conventional oil) and excellent low-temperature performance. Using synthetic blend oil instead of conventional oil can also help your vehicle last longer between oil changes. It is important to note that the ratio of conventional motor oil and synthetic base stock oils in a synthetic blend can vary from brand to brand. Therefore, some semi synthetic oil blends might perform better than others. 

Can my vehicle use synthetic oil or synthetic blend oil?

When determining what type of motor oil to use, and how often to change your oil, you should refer to your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. However, there is good news for anyone who is interested in the benefits of synthetic oil. According to Car and Driver, modern synthetic oil is safe to use in all types of vehicles, ranging from new purchases to classics. The notion that older vehicles may be damaged by using anything other than conventional oil no longer holds true. While early versions of synthetic oil (1970s) may have contained a chemical compound (ester) that could damage engine seals and cause leaks, modern synthetic oil and synthetic blend oil do not contain this chemical and have not been shown to cause engine damage to older vehicles. 

Additionally, AAA recently reported that synthetic oil outperformed conventional oil by an average of 47% in a variety of industry-standard tests. AAA urges drivers to consider a switch to synthetic oil at their next oil change service due to its findings that synthetic oil offers significantly better engine protection for an average of $5 more per month when following a factory-recommended oil change schedule.

As far as making the switch from conventional oil to synthetic, it’s as simple as asking for synthetic oil at your next oil change. Despite outdated advice that you need to flush the engine or take precautions before using synthetic oil, for most vehicles it’s simply not true. For high mileage vehicles, or vehicles where the engine has been poorly maintained, you may consider an engine and/or transmission flush prior to the oil change to help ensure the engine is clean and free of any accumulated contaminants so you can realize the full benefits of synthetic oil. For older vehicles, you may also consider asking for a “high mileage” synthetic oil, which are specifically designed for engines with more wear and miles.

Overall, synthetic motor oil is engineered to offer superior lubrication and protection for your engine compared to conventional motor oil. Customers of Costa Oil – 10 Minute Oil Change can choose from either a full synthetic or synthetic blend of our proprietary motor oil that meets all API and SAE specifications. Our technicians will be happy to answer any questions you may have about what oil can be used for your specific vehicle make and model.

Find your local Costa Oil – 10 Minute Oil Change here! No appointment needed!