Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil: What’s the Difference?

You might see something about synthetic oil vs. conventional oil when it comes to getting an oil change at our service center in Humble. Although both types of oil have the same base of crude petroleum, there are some major differences between synthetic vs. regular oil. You’ll need to understand what sets these two oil types apart so you can decide which one is better for you for your vehicle in Houston. 

Our guide from Texan GMC Buick debates the merits of synthetic vs. conventional oil. We’ll also look over full synthetic oil vs. a synthetic blend. We’re happy to help in any way we can.

Which Is Better in the Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil Debate

When comparing synthetic oil vs. conventional oil, you’ll see some similarities for your vehicle in Porter. But there are some differences, particularly when it comes to turbocharged engines.

What Is Conventional (Regular) Oil?

Conventional or “regular” oil comes from refined crude petroleum mined from the ground. This oil protects your engine from the heat that builds up when the pistons move up and down. Conventional oil is cheaper upfront when you consider synthetic vs. regular oil. However, cheaper doesn’t mean that’s the way to go.

What Is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil also comes from crude petroleum. However, refineries remove more impurities from the petroleum compared to regular oil. Refineries also add stabilizers, anti-oxidizers, and cleaners in full synthetic oil. These additives make it last longer than regular oil. 

One important distinction in the synthetic vs. regular oil debate is that impurities can cause more sludge build-up. That means your engine will not be as clean, and you’ll need to change regular oil more often compared to full synthetic oil. Synthetic oils also:

• Are less viscous at lower temperatures, meaning they work better
• Offer enhanced engine cleaning properties to make the engine last longer
• Better protect critical turbocharger parts (when equipped)
• Keep your engine cleaner for longer periods
• Required for engines with turbocharged parts

Full Synthetic Oil vs. Synthetic Blend

There is a third choice, which is comparing full synthetic oil vs. synthetic blends. As the name implies, a synthetic blend delivers some of the same benefits of full synthetic oil with a lower price point. However, we highly recommend full synthetic oil. 

Oil Change Pro Tips

• Check your owner’s manual to see which oil type your vehicle needs.
• Full synthetic oil is cheaper in the long run because the oil lasts longer and you have fewer oil changes. Rather than every 3,000 miles, full synthetic oils last 7,500 miles or more. Your overall costs will be lower.
• Vehicles with turbocharged parts, which are the vast majority of new engines, require full synthetic oil because turbochargers move very quickly and need very clean oil. About three-fourths of the vehicles we see require full synthetic oil. 

Schedule an Oil Change in Humble!

Thank you for reading our guide that compares synthetic vs. regular oil. If it’s time for an oil change near New Caney, schedule service with our team. Take a look at our service and parts tips for more information about taking care of your vehicle. Our service specials can help you save on your maintenance costs.