SYNTHETIC OILS – WHEN YOU SHOULD USE THEM

Oil is a critical component for your vehicle’s functioning. Oil allows the parts of your engine to move and interact without friction or grinding. Oil keeps the parts of your engine well-lubricated to resist overheating and to flush dirt and grime that can cause damage. Regular oil changes are essential for your vehicle’s health and performance because a fresh and appropriate dose of oil keeps your engine safe. But should you use synthetic or conventional motor oil?

When You Should Use Synthetic Oils

If you can fall under one or more of these categories, you should consider using synthetic oil for your vehicle. First, you may need to determine what type of oil you are already using in your vehicle, then make the switch if necessary.

• If Your Owner’s Manual Says So. Some manufacturers will not honor your warranty if you’ve used conventional oil when they’ve recommended synthetic. Check your manufacturers recommendations as found on their website or the owner’s manual.
• Extreme Temperatures. Synthetic oil is known to be more resilient to temperature sings, so it holds up longer in heat and is still flowing and functioning in icy cold. This means synthetic oil is essential if you take a lot of long road trips in the hot summer, or lots of quick drives to work or the pool that can wear down a hot engine. Alternately, a synthetic oil is easier on a cold engine that has to start up and run in frigid temperatures because it makes engine operation less resistant.
• Early 2000s Vehicles. For whatever reason, many vehicles from this era are prone to sludge buildup. Sludge occurs when your oil breaks down, and it can be harmful to your engine – as well as just plain gross. Synthetic oil can help loosen up existing sludge and will also resist breaking down, which prevents adding more sludge to these older vehicles.
• If Your Vehicle Works Extra Hard. If you are towing or hauling large loads, your engine is working harder than most. Your engine is most likely wearing down your oil faster, which means a synthetic oil would be better for you. Synthetic oil lasts longer and resists breakdown, so it can handle a little extra load, while preserving your engine.
• If You Can Afford It. Not everyone needs synthetic, although most sources would say it’s superior. Synthetic oils are more expensive, but if you can afford the upgrade they are well worth the extra performance and fuel efficiency they provide.

You may find that synthetic oils change everything for you. Do your homework today!