The motor vehicle industry is always looking for ways to improve the performance of your car. Among the many advances we’ve seen in our shop at Al's One Stop Auto is the use of synthetic motor oil. Within the past five years, most manufacturers have been recommending synthetic over conventional motor oil in their new vehicles. So, what’s the difference between the new lubricants and the ones we’ve been using for years?
Conventional motor oil is a product that comes straight out of the ground in the form of crude that’s refined to a viscosity, or thickness, that acts as a protective lubricant for your vehicle’s engine. Synthetic motor oil is developed in a laboratory. Experts believe that the synthetic variety is designed to have a more uniform viscosity than conventionally produced motor oil. This means synthetic oil provides increased reliability at higher and lower temperatures, thereby giving your engine more protection and a longer life. Both varieties also contain a range of additives that are meant to boost performance.
One thing you’ll notice when purchasing synthetic oil versus the conventional type: Price. An oil change using synthetic motor oil can easily cost almost double what you’d pay for conventional. However, the upside is that synthetic lasts considerably longer, so chances are you’ll be getting your oil changed less frequently.
If you perform your own oil changes, check your owner’s manual to learn whether the manufacturer recommends synthetic oil. By 2019, an estimated 70 percent of new cars were using synthetic or blended motor oil.
Should you switch to synthetic oil in your older model vehicle? Experts agree that the new breed of lubricants can provide benefits for older, high-mileage cars.
At Al's One Stop Auto our experienced mechanics use the latest technology to keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly. If you have questions about motor oil or anything else concerning your car’s performance, please contact us today!