The Truth About Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil: Which Is Best for Your Car?

Whether you drive a high-powered truck, a family-friendly SUV, or a sporty sedan, it’s important to schedule a routine oil change service to ensure your vehicle is in peak operating condition. Learn why synthetic car oil or conventional oil is best for your ride. 

Conventional motor oil is made from refined crude oil and serves the purpose of lubricating your engine to prevent damage caused by friction. Synthetic oil, on the other hand, is typically made in a lab and often has specific additives to enhance the performance of your vehicle. In general, conventional motor oil is used in gas-powered vehicles, especially older models, while synthetic oil is commonly found in newer models and performance vehicles. 

Key Facts About Conventional Car Oil

Affordability is the biggest benefit of conventional engine oil. This motor oil is thicker and flows more slowly, so it’s ideal for older or larger engines that need more lubrication to prevent damage. This motor oil will typically last for 5,000 to 7,000 miles. 

Key Facts About Synthetic Car Oil

Synthetic oil is formulated to reduce sludge buildup in the engine, resist heat damage to engine components, and have a thinner viscosity that flows more easily in the motor to improve fuel economy. Turbocharged engines perform ideally with synthetic oil, so many modern vehicles with eco-friendly motors use blended synthetic or fully synthetic motor oil. You can expect this oil to last up to 10,000 to 15,000 miles.

When Should You Schedule an Oil Change Service?

If your vehicle was made in the last few years or has a turbocharged engine under the hood, you can schedule oil service every six months or so. Older vehicles with larger motors may need oil service every three months to maintain ideal performance. For most vehicles, you should change your engine oil every six months since motor oil degrades over time, even when you don’t drive your vehicle frequently. 

You should schedule oil service when the check engine oil light turns on. It’s a good idea to book service in preparation for a long trip, after you return from a trip, or to weatherize your vehicle for seasonal changes. You should also schedule service if you notice unusual leaks, loud engine noise, smell oil in the cabin, or see excessive exhaust smoke. A change in gas mileage is also a sign that your vehicle needs fresh oil. 

Your owner’s manual will indicate whether conventional or synthetic oil is best for your vehicle, as well as the recommended oil change interval to support your vehicle’s performance. Get in touch with Madison Chrysler Inc in Madison, CT to book oil service today.

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