Synthetic or Conventional Oil for Your Next Oil Change Service?

Selecting the right oil for your vehicle can be confusing as there are countless options available from different brands and at different price points. The variety may leave you questioning whether you should use synthetic oil, an oil blend, or conventional oil. 

Synthetic oil has many advantages, such as longer life and better engine protection. On the other hand, conventional oil is generally much cheaper. Moreover, sticking to a regular oil change schedule can be just as important as the type of oil you use. Rotating between synthetic and conventional oils could also be ideal. 

If you are unsure which motor oil fits your vehicle and circumstances best, Tire Works is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our oil change services or to make an appointment. 

The Differences Between Synthetic and Standard Oil

Standard motor oil is derived from crude oil, while synthetic oil is man-made. Synthetic oils are specifically formulated to have a more uniform molecular structure and better purity than conventional motor oils. These unique man-made ingredients and additives allow synthetic oil to lubricate your vehicle’s engine more efficiently, in addition to providing numerous advantages. 

What Are Blended Oils?

Blends of synthetic and standard oil can offer the best of both worlds by generally being less costly than full synthetic oils and still offering some of the same benefits. However, blended oils still contain some of the impurities and inconsistent molecular size of standard motor oil, albeit to a lower degree.

The Advantages of a Synthetic Oil Change 

Synthetic oils can have numerous advantages over conventional oils, including: 

Fuel efficiency – By reducing friction in a vehicle’s engine, synthetic oil can enable you to get the best mileage out of your car.  

Longer engine life – Due to its special formulation and chemical purity, synthetic oil lubricates and protects engine parts more efficiently than standard oil.

Fewer oil changes – Typically, synthetic oil lasts longer than standard oil. 

Stability in temperature extremes - Synthetic oil can help your engine start easier in colder weather and stay cooler in extreme heat. 

Fewer emissions - Synthetic oil keeps our air cleaner by reducing oil burn-off and emissions. 

Should You Choose a Full Synthetic Oil Change?

A synthetic oil change service can be a sound investment that can help prolong the life of your engine and vehicle, particularly if: 

You Take Many Short Trips

When making short trips, conventional oil may not get warm enough to burn off impurities and moisture efficiently.

You Live in a Region With Extreme Temperatures 

Synthetic oil can protect your engine more efficiently than standard oil in extreme temperatures. 

You Use the Vehicle for Towing

If you frequently tow or haul heavy loads, a synthetic diesel oil change can help protect your hard-working engine. 

You Drive an Older Vehicle

Older cars tend to have more sludge build-up in their engines, negatively impacting the performance and longevity of your vehicle. Synthetic oil can prevent sludge.

While a full synthetic oil change can be pricey compared to conventional oil, it can help keep your engine in great shape. Using synthetic oil is also more environmentally friendly as fewer oil changes produces less waste oil.

Can I Wait Longer Between Oil Changes with Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil changes typically last longer. However, the frequency of oil changes can also depend on:

• The specific brand of motor oil used
• Driving style
• Driving conditions and environment

While some vehicles can go up to 10,000 miles or more before needing an oil change, most carmakers advise oil changes every 5,000-7,500 miles. Vehicle owners should check their car’s manual to determine the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Visit Tire Works for Your Las Vegas Oil Change

The certified technicians at Tire Works can advise you on all aspects of oil change services and determine which motor oil is the best choice for your car. Contact us now with any questions or to schedule an oil change.