Should I get a conventional oil change or synthetic?

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, one of the most important decisions you'll make is whether to get a conventional oil change or switch to a synthetic oil. Both options have their advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your driving habits, the age and condition of your vehicle, and your personal preferences. In this article, we'll explore the key differences between conventional and synthetic oils to help you make an informed decision.

Conventional Oil vs. Synthetic Oil

Conventional oil is a refined, naturally-occurring petroleum product that has been used in vehicles for decades. It is generally less expensive than synthetic oil, but it also has a shorter lifespan and may not provide the same level of protection for your engine. Synthetic oil, on the other hand, is a man-made lubricant that is designed to be more durable, stable, and resistant to breakdown under high temperatures and stress.

Factors to Consider

When deciding between conventional and synthetic oil, there are several factors to consider:

• Driving Conditions: If you frequently drive in extreme temperatures, tow heavy loads, or engage in high-performance driving, synthetic oil may be the better choice as it can better withstand the increased stress on the engine.


• Engine Age and Condition: Older engines or those with higher mileage may benefit more from the enhanced protection and longer lifespan of synthetic oil, which can help extend the engine's life.


• Oil Change Interval: Synthetic oil typically lasts longer between changes, which can save you time and money in the long run.


• Cost: Synthetic oil is generally more expensive upfront, but the longer lifespan and improved engine protection may offset the higher cost over time.

Ultimately, the decision between conventional and synthetic oil will depend on your specific driving needs and preferences. If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to consult with a trusted mechanic or refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for guidance.

What happens if I put conventional oil instead of synthetic?

If you put conventional oil in a car that requires synthetic, you may experience a slight reduction in performance and protection, and you will need to change the oil more frequently. For newer cars with tight engine tolerances, using the wrong type of oil can lead to increased wear and potentially void your warranty. However, switching is generally not harmful for older vehicles, especially for a one-time emergency use, and you won't need to flush the system. 
Potential consequences of using conventional oil

• Reduced engine protection: Synthetic oil is engineered to be more stable and provide better protection than conventional oil, especially under extreme temperatures. Conventional oil breaks down faster, which can lead to more engine wear. 
• More frequent oil changes: You will need to change conventional oil much more often to maintain the same level of protection as synthetic oil. 
• Performance degradation: Conventional oil may not perform as well in very cold weather, leading to slower cranking. It can also result in a slight decrease in fuel efficiency. 
• Voided warranty: If your car's manufacturer specifies synthetic oil, using conventional oil could void your engine warranty. 

Important considerations

• Engine type: Newer engines with tighter clearances are more sensitive to the type of oil used. Older engines may be more tolerant of the switch. 
• Compatibility: Synthetic and conventional oils are compatible, so they can be mixed without causing immediate damage. No engine flush is necessary. 
• Best practice: To maintain your engine's performance and longevity, it is best to stick with the oil type recommended by the manufacturer. 

Is it better to change oil, synthetic or regular?

Conventional oil is less expensive per oil change and refined from crude oil, but it breaks down faster, requires more frequent changes (around 3,000–5,000 miles), and can form sludge. Synthetic oil is more expensive upfront but lasts longer (7,500–10,000+ miles), offers superior performance in extreme temperatures, reduces engine wear, and resists sludge formation. The choice depends on your vehicle, driving habits, and budget, with synthetic often recommended for modern engines and extreme conditions.
 
Conventional Oil

• Composition: Refined from crude oil, with more impurities and less uniform molecules. 
• Oil Change Interval: Needs to be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. 
• Breakdown: Breaks down faster under heat and heavy loads, potentially leading to sludge buildup. 
• Cost: Lower upfront cost per oil change. 
• Best for: Older vehicles or those with lower mileage and less severe driving conditions. 

Synthetic Oil

• Composition: Chemically engineered, with uniform molecules and no impurities, offering superior performance. 
• Oil Change Interval: Lasts much longer, typically every 7,500 to 10,000+ miles. 
• Breakdown: Highly resistant to high temperatures and cold, meaning it maintains its protective properties longer and forms less sludge. 
• Cost: Higher upfront cost, but can be more economical long-term due to fewer changes. 
• Best for: Newer vehicles, high-performance engines, vehicles that tow heavy loads, or those driven in extreme hot or cold climates. 

Is it worth paying extra for synthetic oil?

While synthetic oil does cost more upfront, the longer oil change intervals, better engine protection, and improved efficiency make it a worthwhile investment. Instead of looking at just the cost per quart, think about how it benefits your engine's health and long-term performance.

Is there a downside to synthetic oil?

The main disadvantages of synthetic oil are its higher cost, potential for higher fuel consumption at highway speeds, and possible compatibility issues with older engines or certain engine types. While modern synthetics are less prone to these issues, they can sometimes dislodge old sludge, and some synthetics may not be recommended for certain vehicles or applications, so it's crucial to consult the owner's manual. 
Cost

• Higher price: Synthetic oil typically costs two to four times more than conventional motor oil. 

Performance and compatibility

• Highway fuel economy: Multi-grade synthetic oils may have slightly less fuel economy at highway speeds compared to mineral oils. 
• Older engines: In some older vehicles, the detergents in synthetic oil can dislodge built-up sludge, potentially leading to leaks if the seals are worn. The increased friction reduction might also be an issue for older engines designed for a break-in period, though this is less of a concern with modern cars. 
• Rotary engines: Synthetic oil is not recommended for all rotary engines, although some modern synthetics can be used safely in specific applications. 
• Additive precipitation: Under very cold storage conditions, additives in some synthetics may separate from the oil. 
• Incompatibility with other oils: Mixing synthetic and conventional oils can cause problems, and they are not always compatible with petroleum-based products. 

Environmental

• Energy intensive production: It takes more energy to produce synthetic oil than conventional oil. 
• Disposal: Synthetic oils require different disposal methods than conventional oils. 

Other considerations

• Engine flush: If you switch from conventional to synthetic oil in a high-mileage or older vehicle, it is recommended to use an engine flush and change the oil filter first to prevent clogs.