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Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil: Which One Does Your Car Need?

A regular oil change is preventative vehicle maintenance that extends the life of your vehicle, saving you money with each mile driven. Without a doubt, oil change services are important; but which type of oil—synthetic or conventional– is best for your vehicle? To help you answer this question, Jiffy Lube offers the following information.

Conventional oil is refined from naturally occurring crude oil, while synthetic is created with a chemically altered conventional oil base or artificially manufactured using other materials. Experts agree that synthetic oil has certain advantages, including the fact that it’s thinner, lubricates better, and is more durable, making it prone to resist degradation due to high engine heat. Simply stated, synthetic oil lasts longer resulting in fewer oil changes.

Your vehicle owner’s manual often specifies the type and grade of oil best for your vehicle.  Some new and late model vehicle manufacturers require the use of full synthetic oil, especially in European makes, hybrids, and high performance vehicles. Not getting a synthetic oil change for these vehicles could jeopardize your warranty on any type of future engine problem.

Ultimately, the choice of oil is often based on personal values, driving habits, or style. When it’s time for your next Southern California oil change, consider using conventional oil if:

• You obtain regular oil changes on time (according to vehicle manufacturer recommended intervals) for your vehicle.
• You drive a vehicle with a rotary engine such as a Mazda or Audi.
• You drive mostly short distances and at lower speeds.

Consider synthetic oil if:

• You prefer to have less frequent oil changes or forget to obtain service until the recommended interval has passed.
• You own a high performance vehicle or drive in severe conditions resulting in greater than normal amounts of engine heat.
• You have environmental concerns and would like to use less oil over the life of your vehicle, obtain slightly better gas mileage, and emit less exhaust.

Though synthetic oil is more expensive initially, longer oil change intervals help even out costs.

Regardless of which oil you choose, a Jiffy Lube oil change includes a thorough change, inspection, check/fill, and cleaning of key components to keep your vehicle operating in its prime mile after mile after mile.