Many people argue about the right type of synthetic oil for their cars. As an example, car owners may need to choose between synthetic and traditional engine oils. Regardless of the type we choose, it is important to make sure that these oils are able to sufficiently protect our engine. Due to differences in the manufacturing process, traditional and synthetic oils have huge difference in its structure. Oils should also maintain its functionality when subjected to very high temperature and they won’t change into gel in very low temperature. Synthetic oils are typically loaded with more additives to maintain its structure and functionality. In general, synthetic engine oil is more expensive than traditional oils. However, synthetic oils are generally more durable and can last up to four times longer, compared to conventional oil, in some cases, until 50,000 miles, but if the oil filter is changed regularly. Despite the higher cost, the benefit of using synthetic oil is usually quite substantial and we may actually save some money. Even so, engine oil should be checked regularly and we may need to add some extra oil, because the level could become lower.
In normal situations, conventional engine oils are often the best for us. In this case, normal drivers are able swear allegiance to traditional oil, if we never drive our car in extreme situations. Many short driving session in one day can be considered as heavy driving pattern. This driving habit can be quite difficult on our car. Frequent start-stop of the engine could cause changes in the structure of engine oil. Synthetic engine oil is usually more pure with much fewer impurities, because they are manufactured from scratch. Traditional oil is made from crude oil and it often contains more impurities. It means that we need to use better filters to clean any impurity. Traditional engine oil usually have solvents that can stick to seals and gaskets. Different type of engine oil has different composition of additives and solvents. In some cases, when we change the type of engine oil, leaks may develop, due to different interaction with gaskets and seals, If we want to use synthetic oils, we should have clean seals and gaskets to minor leakage and other issues. So, if our current car is using traditional oil, we should ask mechanics whether changing to synthetic oil will cause problems.
Synthetic engine oil works at its best when the engine temperature goes beyond 250 degrees Fahrenheit. However, many people don’t drive their car until such temperature is reached. This could happen in urban situation, when drivers have frequent stop and go driving sessions. This puts significant pressure to our engine. It is better to participate in the Internet forum to know directly from car owners the actual different when they use conventional and synthetic oil. We may also narrow down the discussion about the brands of engine oil that is appropriate for specific car models. This will ensure the longevity of our car engine.