What Is the Difference Between Engine Oils, Conventional Oil vs Full-Synthetic?

When you get an oil change, you probably don’t give much thought about what kind is being used. However, four different types of oil can be used for proper lubrication and protection of your engine. Let’s explore the types of engine oils and how they are different.

Synthetic Motor Oil

Synthetic oil is an artificial product, unlike conventional oil derived from crude oil. Synthetic motor oils are designed and formulated to have higher levels of lubrication, improved wear protection, better cold start-ups, and more efficient fuel economy. It also has a longer life expectancy than conventional oil, meaning it can usually go longer between changes.

Conventional Motor Oil

Conventional oil is refined and derived from crude oil. It is less expensive than synthetic oil, but it does not stand up as well over time. It has a shorter life expectancy than synthetic oil and can be prone to break down faster in extreme temperatures or if the engine runs too hot. It’s also recommended for cars with simple engines and drivers with normal driving conditions.

High Mileage Motor Oil

High-mileage motor oils are designed specifically for engines with over 75,000 miles. This type of oil has special additives that help protect seals and reduce leaks, as older engines are more prone to this issue. It also helps to reduce friction and wear on older engine parts, providing better performance and protection over time. Always check with your owner’s manual and mechanic for recommendations on using high-mileage motor oil.

Synthetic Blend Motor Oil

A synthetic blend motor oil is a mix of both conventional and synthetic oils. It provides lubrication and protection at a lower cost than full-synthetic oil. This type of oil may be recommended for cars that don’t require full-synthetic oil yet need something better than conventional oil.

Determining Motor Oil Grade

Motor oil grades are determined by their viscosity. Viscosity is the measure of how thick or thin an oil is. The higher the number, the thicker the oil. For instance, if you see a motor oil that says 10W-30, it has a viscosity rating of 10 on a cold start and 30 at operating temperature. It’s essential to select the proper viscosity for your engine. If you use the wrong oil, it could cause severe damage to the engine.

What Are Multi-weight Engine Oils?

Multi-weight engine oils are a combination of two or more viscosity ratings. This oil is designed to flow easily at low temperatures and provide protection at higher temperatures. Multi-weight oils are usually recommended by most vehicle manufacturers, as they work well in both cold and hot climates.

As you can see, not all engine oil is created the same. Engine oil is the lifeline of your car, and it’s important to use the proper type for your engine, which is why it’s recommended you trust a professional mechanic with your oil changes. With the right engine oil, you can help ensure that your engine continues to run smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

Categorised in: Oil Changes

This post was written by admin