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What is the disadvantage of synthetic oil?

Synthetic oil is a popular choice for many vehicle owners due to its superior performance and longer lifespan compared to conventional mineral-based oils. However, one key disadvantage of synthetic oil is its higher cost. Synthetic oils are typically more expensive than their conventional counterparts, which can be a significant factor for some consumers.


Explaining the Disadvantage of Synthetic Oil


Synthetic oils are created through a complex chemical process that involves refining and purifying base oils to remove impurities and enhance their performance characteristics. This manufacturing process is more involved and expensive than the extraction and refining of conventional mineral-based oils, which contributes to the higher price tag of synthetic oils.


Additionally, synthetic oils are often engineered to meet specific performance standards and requirements, such as improved viscosity, better resistance to oxidation, and enhanced cold-weather performance. These specialized formulations and the research and development required to create them also add to the overall cost of synthetic oils.


Factors Affecting the Cost of Synthetic Oil



  • Manufacturing process: The complex chemical process involved in creating synthetic oils is more expensive than the extraction and refining of conventional mineral-based oils.

  • Specialized formulations: Synthetic oils are engineered to meet specific performance standards, which requires additional research and development, further increasing the cost.

  • Brand and quality: Premium synthetic oil brands and higher-quality formulations tend to be more expensive than lower-end or generic synthetic oils.

  • Vehicle requirements: Some vehicles may require the use of specific synthetic oil formulations, which can be more costly than universal synthetic oils.


While the higher cost of synthetic oil may be a disadvantage for some consumers, the potential benefits, such as improved engine performance, extended oil change intervals, and better protection against wear and tear, may outweigh the additional expense for many vehicle owners.

What are two major concerns when using synthetic oils?


  • Synthetic Oils do not disperse and suspend contaminants as well as AD oils. 𝘚𝘺𝘯𝘡𝘩𝘦𝘡π˜ͺ𝘀 𝘰π˜ͺ𝘭𝘴 𝘀𝘒𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘭𝘢π˜₯𝘨𝘦 𝘣𝘢π˜ͺ𝘭π˜₯-𝘢𝘱 π˜ͺ𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘀π˜ͺ𝘱𝘴
  • Synthetic Oils can soften rubber products and resins in the engine.
  • Synthetic Oils are not compatible with mineral-based oils.
  • Synthetic Oils have a tendency to blister or remove paint.



Why can't you go back to regular oil after synthetic?


Here is the problem: Synthetic oil has smaller molecules and higher densities. If you switch from synthetic to coventional...the gaskets and seals that had no cracks with the other larger molecules could start to deteriorate with expansion and heat with synthetic oil now in place.



Will synthetic oil damage a high mileage engine?


USING HIGH-MILEAGE SYNTHETIC OIL IN HIGH-MILEAGE ENGINES
Those who decide to switch to high-mileage synthetic oil may face leakage problems due to the potential incompatibility of the synthetic used in certain oils with the engine's seal types.



What happens if I use synthetic oil instead of regular?


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.



Which engine oil is better, synthetic or regular?


5. Is synthetic oil better for my engine than conventional oil? 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.



Will synthetic oil damage a high-mileage engine?


USING HIGH-MILEAGE SYNTHETIC OIL IN HIGH-MILEAGE ENGINES
Those who decide to switch to high-mileage synthetic oil may face leakage problems due to the potential incompatibility of the synthetic used in certain oils with the engine's seal types.



When should you not use synthetic oil?


Older Vehicles: Some older engines, particularly those designed before synthetic oils became popular, may not be compatible with synthetic oil. These engines can have seals and gaskets that were not designed to handle the additives in synthetic oils, which could lead to leaks.



Does it hurt an engine to go from synthetic to regular oil?


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.



Should I use synthetic oil in my high mileage car?


Myth: Full synthetic oil is not good for high mileage cars or older vehicles. The myth is rooted in the idea that synthetic oil is β€œslipperier”—lower in viscosity, or not as compatible with seals and will therefore leak or leak more in places conventional oil might not. Again, completely untrue.



Is synthetic oil ok for older engines?


Risks of Using Synthetic Oil in Older Cars
This is because many synthetic oils contain esters, which are organic compounds mixed with alcohol. This particular combination can be extremely rough on seals within the engine, which can cause the seals to wear down and begin to leak or burn oil.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.