What happens if you put full synthetic instead of synthetic blend?
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, choosing the right type of motor oil is crucial for engine performance and longevity. Many drivers wonder what would happen if they used full synthetic oil instead of a synthetic blend. At Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’re here to break it down for you.
Understanding the Difference Between Full Synthetic and Synthetic Blend
Before diving into the effects of switching to full synthetic oil, it’s important to understand the difference between the two:
- Full Synthetic Oil: This is a highly refined oil made entirely from synthetic base stocks. It offers superior performance, better engine protection, and enhanced resistance to extreme temperatures.
- Synthetic Blend Oil: This is a mixture of synthetic and conventional oils. While it provides some benefits of synthetic oil, it doesn’t match the performance or longevity of full synthetic oil.
What Happens When You Use Full Synthetic Instead of Synthetic Blend?
Switching from a synthetic blend to full synthetic oil is generally not harmful to your engine. In fact, it can offer several benefits:
- Improved Engine Protection: Full synthetic oil provides better lubrication, reducing wear and tear on engine components.
- Enhanced Performance in Extreme Temperatures: Full synthetic oil performs better in both hot and cold conditions, ensuring smoother engine operation.
- Longer Oil Change Intervals: Full synthetic oil lasts longer than synthetic blends, meaning fewer oil changes and lower maintenance costs over time.
However, it’s important to note that full synthetic oil is typically more expensive than synthetic blends. While the benefits often justify the cost, it’s worth considering your vehicle’s specific needs and your budget.
Will It Harm Your Engine?
Using full synthetic oil instead of a synthetic blend will not harm your engine. Modern engines are designed to handle a variety of oil types, and full synthetic oil exceeds the performance standards of synthetic blends. In fact, many manufacturers recommend full synthetic oil for optimal engine performance.
That said, always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended oil type and viscosity. Following these guidelines ensures your engine operates as intended.
When Should You Consider Switching?
There are certain situations where switching to full synthetic oil makes sense:
- High-Performance Vehicles: If you drive a high-performance car, full synthetic oil can help maximize engine output and efficiency.
- Extreme Driving Conditions: If you frequently drive in extreme temperatures, tow heavy loads, or make short trips, full synthetic oil offers better protection.
- Older Engines: For older engines with high mileage, full synthetic oil can help reduce sludge buildup and improve overall performance.
Conclusion
Switching from a synthetic blend to full synthetic oil is a safe and often beneficial choice for your vehicle. It provides superior engine protection, better performance in extreme conditions, and longer oil change intervals. However, always consult your owner’s manual and consider your driving habits before making the switch. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help you make the best decision for your car’s health and performance. Feel free to contact us for expert advice or to schedule your next oil change!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is synthetic blend or full synthetic better?
Full synthetic oil contains stronger base components. Which in turn will provide better performance versus a synthetic blend oil. Full synthetic tends to break down slower as well, so you won't have to change your oil as often compared to synthetic blend oil.
Is it bad to go from full synthetic to synthetic blend?
Compatibility: Synthetic blends are designed to be compatible with full synthetic oils, so mixing them generally won't cause any issues.
When should you not use full synthetic oil?
Fully Synthetic oil is mostly only suitable for modern cars of about 15 years old maximum, don't use fully Synthetic oil in a very old engine and most important always use the oil that is recommended in your owner's manual.
Is full synthetic oil better than blend?
Full synthetic oil contains stronger base components. Which in turn will provide better performance versus a synthetic blend oil. Full synthetic tends to break down slower as well, so you won't have to change your oil as often compared to synthetic blend oil.
Is fully synthetic oil bad for old engines?
Yes, you can run full synthetic oil in older cars, and it can even be beneficial in many cases. Here are some key points to consider: Compatibility: Most older engines can use synthetic oil without issues.
Why can't you go back to regular oil after full synthetic?
Synthetic oils typically provide better protection than conventional oils, but switching back and forth between full synthetic and conventional oil will not damage the engine. Of course, this depends on the current engine condition and the quality of the conventional oil being used.
Will switching oil types harm the engine?
The oil you use does not matter what brand it is. Every time you change a brand, you can literally use a different brand -- and your engine will not suffer any damage.
Will synthetic blend hurt my engine?
If you have a vehicle with a high-performance engine, mixing conventional with synthetic might not allow the expensive additives in the synthetic to work the way they should. It won't damage the engine, but it won't help it either.
Can you damage engine with wrong oil?
Reduced engine protection: The wrong oil may not have the same additives, viscosities, or performance characteristics as the oil the manufacturer recommends. Because of the increased wear and strain, this can reduce the engine's lifespan and even damage it.
Does full synthetic really make a difference?
Yes, synthetic oil is better for your engine than conventional oil. Although conventional oil (i.e., mineral oil) can provide adequate lubrication performance, it can't compete with the overall engine performance and protection provided by synthetics.
