Synthetic vs. Regular Oil: Which is Better for Your Car?

The service center at Hendrick Cadillac Southpoint performs oil changes for drivers from Raleigh to Chapel Hill on a daily basis. Our service technicians can use either synthetic oil or conventional oil (also referred to as regular oil). Between synthetic vs. regular oil, is one better than the other for your vehicle? Most vehicles are perfectly fine to use regular oil, but some drivers prefer synthetic oil because of its high-performance properties. Compare synthetic oil vs. regular oil with us below to learn more and determine which is the best choice for your ride! 

What are the Properties of Regular Oil?

Conventional or “regular” oil is a petroleum-based substance that is distilled from crude oil mined from the earth. For years it has been the go-to for internal combustion engines, serving as an effective lubricant to protect internal engine components, reduce engine wear, and protect the engine from high temperatures. 

What are the Properties of Synthetic Oil?

Like regular oil, synthetic oil is petroleum-based. Its lubricating properties are more prominent and it’s also a more stable substance. Synthetic oil is less susceptible to oxidation and it tends to be better at retaining its protective properties. These superior protective properties are developed from petrochemicals in intense processes, which is why synthetic oil is more expensive than regular oil. Additionally, synthetic oil also provides these key benefits:

• Less viscous at lower temperatures
• Enhanced engine cleaning properties
• Better protection of turbocharger components in turbocharged engines

With the exception of some high-performance vehicles, most do not require synthetic oil. Still, some drivers find that it’s worth the extra cost because of its superior performance. Often, the properties of synthetic oil help it last longer between oil changes, so you may even find that the cost evens out pretty well in the end!

Full Synthetic Oil vs. Synthetic Blends

In addition to comparing synthetic oil vs. regular oil, you may also want to consider full synthetic oil vs. synthetic blends. Synthetic blends can be a great option for Cary drivers who are interested in the properties of synthetic oil, but would like to save a bit on the cost. As the name suggests, synthetic blends are composed of part synthetic and part regular oil. You can reduce the synthetic cost while still enjoying better performance than regular oil. 

Before you opt for a synthetic blend, make sure to check your owner’s manual. If your vehicle requires full synthetic oil, that’s what you should stick with. Otherwise, any vehicle that recommends regular oil can safely take full synthetic or a synthetic blend. 

Schedule Your Next Oil Change in Durham

Whether you prefer conventional, synthetic, or a synthetic blend for your car, you can expect fast and courteous service at the Hendrick Cadillac Southpoint service department. Schedule your next service visit to get started today! With any questions before then, please contact us at your convenience and we’ll be happy to assist.