Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil

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The Covert Buick GMC Austin service center hears many car maintenance and service questions from Austin drivers. If you’re like many drivers, you may wonder about the difference between synthetic vs. regular oil and full synthetic oil vs. synthetic blends. Read on as our service team compares these products and explains the differences.

What is Conventional (Regular) Oil?

Conventional oil, or “regular” oil, is a petroleum-based substance used in combustion engines for decades to lubricate internal parts and minimize engine wear. Motor oil is distilled from crude oil mined from the ground, protecting your car’s engine from high temperatures.

What is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil is also petroleum-based, but one reason drivers choose it over regular oil is that it offers enhanced lubrication and is more stable. Synthetic oils oxidize less quickly than traditional oils and are better at retaining protective properties. They’re developed from petrochemicals in a complex process to provide pinpointed properties, making them superior (and more expensive) than conventional oils. Synthetic oils also have these attributes:

  • Provide enhanced engine cleaning properties
  • Are less viscous at lower temperatures
  • Better at protecting crucial turbocharger parts

The Difference Between Full Synthetic Oil vs. Synthetic Blends

In addition to synthetic vs. conventional oil, synthetic blends are available at Leander auto parts stores. As you might expect, these are made of synthetic and regular oil. Synthetic blends help reduce the cost of full synthetic oil while providing enhanced properties over standard conventional oil.

Note: Some vehicles require only full synthetic oil, especially luxury and high-performance vehicles. Be sure to check your owner’s manual or contact a Covert Buick GMC Austin service advisor if you’re unsure what kind of oil your car needs.

Schedule an Oil Change at Covert Buick GMC Austin Today!

Now that you know the difference between synthetic oil vs. regular oil, when was the last time you had an oil change? If it’s been longer than 7,000 miles, your past due! Good news! You can schedule an oil change online from the comfort of your home. Remember to browse our service coupons to save money on your service appointment. We’re here for you, from a battery replacement to an oil change or new tires, so contact us today!

 

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11750 Research Blvd, Austin, TX, 78759
Covert Buick GMC Austin 30.421, -97.74862.