Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil

Regularly changing the oil in your vehicle is vital to it running smoothly, but why do different vehicles require different kinds of oil? What is the difference between synthetic vs. conventional oil, or full synthetic oil vs. synthetic blends for that matter? The experts at the BMW of Gwinnett Place service center near Marietta are here to let you know. 

Synthetic Oil vs. Regular Oil: Conventional (Regular) Oil

Conventional or “regular” oil is what most Smyrna drivers think of when they think of oil. It’s petroleum-based oil and has been used to lubricate combustion engines since its inception. Doing so prevents friction and protects your car’s engine from high temperatures. As for where conventional oil comes from, it’s distilled from crude oil mined from the ground. 

Synthetic Oil vs. Regular Oil: Synthetic Oil

When comparing synthetic vs. conventional oil, you’ll find that synthetic oil also comes from petroleum. However, it’s been chemically altered to enhance lubrication and increase stability. This means that synthetic oils oxidize less easily than conventional oils. 

Of course, the process of producing synthetic oil involves putting petrochemicals through intense processes, so synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional. Other benefits synthetic oil offers Alpharetta drivers include:

• Lower viscosity at lower temperatures
• Enhanced engine cleaning properties
• And protection of critical turbocharger parts (when equipped)

Certain kinds of sports cars require synthetic oil, and can’t work with conventional oil. Check your owner’s manual to see which kind of oil your model needs.

Full Synthetic Oil vs. Synthetic Blends

While we’ve compared synthetic oil vs. regular oil, there is also full synthetic oil vs. synthetic blends to consider as well. The difference between full synthetic oil vs. synthetic blends is that blends are made of a mix of synthetic and conventional oil. This reduces cost and gives you some of the benefits of synthetic oil. 

Like we mentioned earlier, some vehicles require full synthetic oil. In these cases, a blend often won’t cut it, but always check your owner’s manual. 

Get Your Oil Change at BMW of Gwinnett Place

Need an oil change? Schedule one at BMW of Gwinnett Place today. Our service specials can help you save money, and our staff in Duluth will be happy to chat with you about the difference between synthetic and conventional oil.