Regular or unleaded? Cream or sugar? Low-fat or Skim? The choices we have during the day are endless. Some of these choices may not have a large impact on our lives, such as sugar or splenda, while others do. There are options that we know nothing about, take a stab in the dark and hope for the best. One of these “guesses” is our oil. Synthetic oil is an option given out at most oil-change service stations today. While we are aware the cost is higher, and of course, the salesman/mechanic is pushing the synthetic, what are the actual benefits or drawbacks of synthetic oil?
How does synthetic oil affect the seals in my engine?
The myth that synthetic oil damages the seals of an engine is untrue. Both synthetic and petroleum oils have obstacles to overcome with the seals in your engine. The additives of the oil are what control the seal’s shrinkage, wear, hardening, and swelling. Both synthetic and petroleum oils contain these additives.
Synthetic lubricants are not readily available?
When synthetic oils first were introduced, only two companies manufactured synthetic oil. Today they are readily available and manufactured by almost every major oil company in the world.
Don’t they create sludge?
Synthetic oils have been tested and proven to resist sludge more so than petroleum oils. Synthetic oils have a higher flashpoint and can withstand oxidation and evaporation loss better than petroleum oils. This makes them more resistant to sludge in extreme conditions.
Do they void the warranty?
No major automobile manufacturer has a ban on synthetic oils. Many automobiles with high performance engines come standard with synthetic oils in them. Some owner’s manuals are even suggesting the use of synthetic oils.
After addressing the major concerns and myths surrounding synthetic oils, the question left is: “Is it worth the extra cost?” That is for the consumer to decide. Since the risks are evaluated and determined to be none, the benefits must be evaluated. The benefits of synthetic oil include improving fuel economy, reducing engine wear and tear, higher engine reliability and increasing the prevention of breakdowns and mechanical problems. Is the higher cost worth these benefits?