A Good Synthetic Motor Oil Makes All The Difference
“Why should I pay more for synthetic oil?”
You might be thinking that to yourself, as the confusion over synthetic oil vs. conventional oil is understandable. If you’re not a mechanic like the car care experts at Milito’s Auto Repair in Chicago, you probably don’t give much thought to the difference.
But there is a big difference between synthetic and conventional oil, and here’s why it matters.
What Is Synthetic Motor Oil?
First, it’s important to note that both synthetic oil and traditional motor oil are made from refining oil. Most synthetics begin with highly refined crude oil, pumped from deep underground, which is the same source as conventional oil.
The main difference between synthetic oil and traditional oil is at the level of refinement.
Technically speaking, synthetic oil is not only refined, it is also distilled, purified and broken down into its basic molecules. This process not only removes more impurities from crude oil, but also enables individual molecules in the oil to be tailored to the demands of modern engines.
The result is that synthetic oils generally protect your vehicle better than conventional oils, have some performance advantages, particularly in extreme temperatures, and last longer.
The Advantages of Synthetic Motor Oil
Full synthetic oils, like Mobil 1™ brand of advanced full synthetic motor oils, provide more protection for your vehicle. How that translates on the road is:
Cleaner Engine
As oil circulates through your engine it can pick up deposits. Conventional oils can sometimes form sludge, which can reduce your engine’s efficiency. This ultimately reduces the life of your engine. Because synthetic motor oil contains fewer impurities, it prevents deposits from forming in your engine.
Greater Protection from Engine Wear
Engine parts are constantly grinding together, and it’s the job of the oil to act as a protective barrier between these components. Unlike conventional oils, synthetics keep their wear protection properties for a much longer time, increasing engine life.
Better Winter Protection
When your car sits for awhile, the oil settles. Then when you start it up, the oil begins flowing through critical engine parts to protect against friction. During the cold Chicago winters, it takes even longer for those oils to run smoothly. But with synthetics, they’re engineered to start protecting your engine the second you start your car.
Better Heat Protection
Then there are the Chicago summers when the temperatures are hot, and high temperatures in your engine can cause conventional and synthetic-blend motor oils to break down or evaporate, exposing your engine to wear. Synthetics are made to resist high temperatures, offering more protection.
Can I Switch To Synthetic Motor Oil?
There was once a myth that you couldn’t safely make the switch, but that’s just what it is — a myth. Bring your vehicle to Milito’s Auto Repair in Chicago and we’ll change your oil and fill it up with top-quality synthetic oil.
It’s best to change the oil more frequently the first few months after making the switch, as a high-mileage engine, or one that has had a lack of maintenance including infrequent oil changes, will probably have a big build-up of sludge and deposits.
While driving with the new oil will help clean the engine, it has to work harder with a “dirty” engine. After the first 5,000 miles or so, that synthetic oil is continuing to keep your engine running clean and you can resume your normal schedule.
Make the Switch To Synthetic Oil at Milito’s Auto Repair
When you’re ready to get your oil changed and for any other service repairs, you can depend on the professionalism and expertise of the crew at Milito’s Auto Repair in Chicago for all your car care needs. Contact us today!
