Motor oil is the lifeblood of your engine. It lubricates, cools, and protects your engine from wear and tear, making it essential to the health and longevity of your vehicle. When it comes to choosing the right oil, you have two options: conventional oil and synthetic oil. While conventional oil has been a popular choice for years, synthetic oil is gaining popularity due to its superior performance and protection. At Pit Shop Auto Repair, we’ve been providing the residents of Libertyville with oil changes, and all other manner of vehicle maintenance services for years. We wanted to talk about the pros and cons of synthetic oil to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your vehicle.
What is Synthetic Oil?
Synthetic oil is a man-made lubricant that offers better performance and protection than conventional oil. It is made by chemically synthesizing a base oil and adding performance-enhancing additives. Unlike conventional oil, refined from crude oil, synthetic oil is developed to meet specific performance standards.
Better Performance in Extreme Temperatures
One of the most significant advantages of synthetic oil is that it performs better in extreme temperatures. Synthetic oil has a lower pour point, which means it remains fluid at lower temperatures. This helps to improve cold-start performance, which can reduce engine wear. Synthetic oil also has a higher flash point, which means it can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down. Synthetic oil is ideal for high-performance engines or in areas with extreme heat.
Better Protection Against Engine Wear
Synthetic oil contains advanced additives that help to protect your engine from wear and tear. These additives provide better protection against corrosion, sludge buildup, and other harmful deposits that can damage your engine over time. Synthetic oil is also less prone to evaporation and oxidation, which means it lasts longer and provides better protection over extended oil change intervals.
Improved Fuel Economy
Synthetic oil has a lower friction coefficient than conventional oil, which means it can improve fuel economy by reducing the amount of energy required to turn the engine. This can result in improved fuel efficiency and lower operating costs over time.
Synthetic Oil Comes at a Cost
One of the biggest drawbacks of synthetic oil is its higher cost. Synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional oil, which can make it less appealing to budget-conscious vehicle owners. However, it’s important to note that synthetic oil lasts longer than conventional oil and provides better protection against engine wear, which can offset the higher cost over time.
Get Guidance from a Trusted Libertyville, IL Auto Mechanic
Choosing the right motor oil for your vehicle can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. It’s essential to choose a motor oil that meets the specifications and requirements of your vehicle to ensure optimal performance and longevity. If you’re still uncertain which motor oil is best for your vehicle, your local Libertyville, IL mechanic can help. We have experience with all makes and models and can also provide guidance based on your unique driving situation. Contact us or stop by our garage to learn more about our services!
