With the need to reduce the uses of natural resources such as petroleum fossil fuels and the dependency of foreign oil imports, synthetic oil has become a natural choice for the protection of a vehicle’s engine. With the high costs of importing petroleum crude oil and the reduced supply of these resources, synthetic motor oil is one way of improving the environment and the reducing the world’s natural resources and the dependency on the oil exporting nations.
In the beginning, there were some fears, myths and problems with synthetic oil use. Over time these fears have been tested and reported. With improved manufacturing techniques these problems are generally in the past. Many automobile manufacturers use synthetic oil as a factory fill and synthetic oil is a recommended product by many car care experts.
Disadvantages of Synthetic Motor Oil
- Many of the synthetic oil blends reduce friction better than conventional motor oil. This was a problem with a new engine break in period. The friction during this period was to smooth out any rough spots in the engine. With the improved manufacturing processes now available, a break in period is not as crucial as it was in the past.
- Synthetic oil does not hold lead in the suspension of the oil. This is a problem with older car engines that still need leaded gasoline to run in their engines.
- Problems with racecar type engines using roller lifters. Because of the less friction with the use of synthetic oil, these rollers actually slide instead of the rollers turning as designed.
- Synthetic oil has different disposal methods. It is best to notify the service center changing your oil that the car contains synthetic motor oil.
The price of synthetic motor oil can cost slightly more than petroleum based motor oil. - Synthetic oil is not recommended for rotary type engines.
Advantages of Synthetic Motor Oil
- Synthetic oil does not react to temperature changes as petroleum based motor oil. Synthetic motor oil will not thicken during cold temperatures which will make engine starting and oil pressure buildup better.
- Synthetic motor oil does not evaporate as quickly. This reduces the risk of oil sludge and replacing oil as often.
- With the more constant viscosity, there will be an improved fuel economy.
- Natural petroleum based oil motor oils will break down at high temperatures. At this high temperature oxidation can occur which will develop deposits and varnish. These also can cause sludge. Synthetic oil does not have these problems.
- With the improved friction reduction from the use of synthetic motor oil, engine parts that have wear out over time will last longer. This will reduce the maintenance cost over the long term use of the vehicle.
- Even with the increased price of synthetic motor oil, the advantages outweigh the increased cost. The time period or mileage recommendation for oil changes will be increased. Also with the less oxidation and reduced sludge buildup, oil filters will have a longer life and longer time between replacements.
- With the development of these synthetic motor oil products they have all the properties needed to protect your vehicles engine. By comparing the advantages and disadvantages or using a synthetic motor oil product in your vehicle, you will see a switch from the petroleum based motor oils will save you money over time.
What is the Difference between Synthetic Oil and Conventional Oil?
Basics of a Diesel Oil Change
Are Diesel Maintenance Costs Similar to Gasoline Cars?
Car Wax Formula: Understanding What It's Made of
Signs of Worn Apex Seals on a Rotary Engine
