Vehicle owners must select an oil meeting the engine’s specifications. Conventional and synthetic blends exist. Synthetics outperform in several key areas and are worth slightly higher costs. Understanding oil properties aids the decision. This article explores why synthetic engine oil is better than other forms of oil.
Lubrication and Engine Wear
Motor oil forms a protective film between metal engine components. Conventional oil breaks down faster at high temperatures, losing film strength. Synthetics maintain integrity longer due to their molecular structure. Less friction and wear result, extending part lifespan.
Low-Temperature Fluidity
Synthetics flow more freely in cold temperatures, protecting an engine during startup before reaching optimal operating temperature. Conventional oil takes longer to circulate completely. Quicker lubrication safeguards against corrosion and damage.
High-Temperature Stability
At extreme heat levels, conventional oil molecularly breaks down rapidly. Synthetics retain viscosity and film strength far above the boiling point of petroleum oil. Superior thermal protection shields engines working under heavy loads or towing.
Shear Stability
During operation, oil is subjected to powerful shear forces between moving engine parts. Conventional oil degrades more from this mechanical shearing action. Synthetics maintain viscosity for minimal friction even after many start-stop cycles.
Fuel Economy Benefits
Less internal engine friction from synthetic lubrication means fewer losses in converting fuel to motion. Independent dynamometer tests show fuel savings of up to 4% versus conventional oil. Over time, this adds up significantly.
Extended Drain Intervals
Superior thermal and oxidative stability allows synthetics to maintain properties longer in an engine. Owners’ manuals permit doubling or tripling conventional oil change intervals with full synthetics. Fewer changes save money and time spent on automobile engine repair.
Emissions System Compatibility
Modern vehicles rely on precise oil formulations to lubricate closely tolerance components including emissions equipment. Synthetics are proven compatible with all metals, seals, gaskets, and fuel system elastomers without degradation.
Cold Weather Performance
Synthetics flow like light oil even below freezing, protecting engines during winter starts. They burn cleaner too for easier warm-up. Conventional oil takes longer to circulate completely when cold, risking damage until reaching the ideal temperature.
Oil Additive Performance
Additive packages maintain potency longer in synthetic base stocks versus petroleum oil. Ongoing protection against corrosion, foaming, and other issues is maximized. Superior additive solubility benefits overall engine health.
Environmental Impact
Synthetic motor oils are made from more renewable raw materials than conventional oil. They also biodegrade faster while causing less harm if spilled. Their use contributes to reducing dependency on foreign petroleum sources.
Cost Comparison
While initially more expensive per quart, synthetic motor oil provides far superior performance justification versus conventional oil. Factor in extended change intervals, better fuel economy, and reduced engine wear over the long term. Overall ownership costs usually prove lower with synthetics.
Synthetic Oil Myths
Contrary to myths, high-quality synthetic motor oil is completely compatible with all gasoline and diesel engines. Switching will not avoid any new vehicle warranties. Synthetics are proven to deliver benefits in all driving conditions from extreme cold to high heat.
Conclusion
With unmatched properties versus conventional oil, fully synthetic motor oil provides unparalleled protection for engines under all operating conditions. Its benefits translate to reduced maintenance costs, longer engine life, better fuel economy, and lower emissions over time. Synthetics are worth their slightly higher price tag for optimized performance and reliability.