Some Guidance from Your Friends at New Cats Auto Parts
Most of us know that oil is the lifeblood of your engine, lubricating, cooling, and cleaning it, and in general keeping it running smoothly. Developed way back in 1929, initially, synthetic oil was largely used in high-performance engines, but the energy crisis of the 1970s led to an expansion of its use as a way to improve fuel efficiency. As a consequence, today manufacturers increasingly use synthetic oil in more mainstream engines as a way to increase fuel efficiency and economy.
Given today’s common use of synthetic oil, we thought a few suggestions and insights might be helpful in keeping your vehicle operating properly for many thousands of miles to come!
What is Synthetic Oil and How Often Should You Change It?
First, let’s define synthetic oil; just what is it? Synthetic oil is made up of various chemically-altered compounds, mixed with a base of highly-refined crude oil, enabling you to go longer between oil changes.
Where you may need to change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles using conventional, non-synthetic oil, with synthetic oil you may be able to go anywhere from 7,500 and 15,000 miles between oil changes. Or by the calendar, an oil change interval would be about every 6 to 12 months.
It’s important to note, however, that mileage recommendations for oil changes vary by manufacturer and vehicle model, and you should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in your owner’s manual.
The Price of a Synthetic Oil Change and the Advantages of a Synthetic Blend
If you’re not into performing a DIY oil change, the price of a synthetic motor oil change will cost more because of the price of the additives and the refining process. According to the Kelly Blue Book, you will probably pay $65 to $125 for a synthetic oil change. In contrast, a conventional oil change at most service centers will likely cost somewhere between $35 and $75.
So yes, using synthetic oil is more expensive than the use of conventional oil, but it certainly has its advantages including:
A longer interval between oil changes: As we said you may go up to 15,000 miles (or 12 months) between oil changes, but this can vary by vehicle. Again, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Better performance at high temperatures: In higher temperature performance situations, synthetic oil doesn’t become as viscous (that is, not as thick) as conventional oil and tends to last longer.
Overall better performance, especially in less-than-ideal driving situations: Synthetic oil tends to stay cleaner than conventional oil, making it ideal for driving on dusty, sandy, gravel, or salty roads. Said another way, if you’re into off-road driving, you probably want to use synthetic oil.
Can You Mix Synthetic and Conventional Oils?
If you’re in a bind and need to add oil, you can mix the oils, but most mechanics would really not recommend it. When you mix the two, you’re diluting the advantages of the synthetic, and it’s best to stick with the synthetic if at all possible.
Come to New Cats for High-quality Used Parts
We hope you find these words related to the use of synthetic oils helpful. We also hope when you’re in the market for high-quality used auto parts, you’ll come to New Cats for the best selection of used parts Chicagoland has to offer. We sell both retail and wholesale, and if you have an old junker that’s no longer driveable, we’ll be glad to buy it, pay you cash on the spot, and haul it away.
Whether you’re buying used parts or selling an old pile of automotive junk, New Cats Auto Parts is the name to remember!