Synthetic Vs. Petroleum Oil
Petroleum oil is refined from crude oil pumped from beneath the ground. Synthetic oil is synthesized in a lab using chemically modified petroleum components and provides several key advantages over conventional petroleum oil. Vehicles need motor oil to protect against friction and heat and prevent damage to the engine.
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Oil Changes
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Car manufacturers recommend changing motor oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. In contrast, synthetic oil can last up to three times as long with intervals recommended at 10,000 to 15,000 miles between changes. Synthetic oil costs about twice as much per quart as conventional petroleum oil, but fewer oil changes and better lubrication means less overall maintenance cost for the vehicle.
Environment
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Petroleum-based motor oils are prone to boil or vapor at the engine's normal operating temperature. This breakdown can clog up and damage the engine. Synthetic oils can function at higher temperatures so they improve the life of your engine. According to Galen Armenta, author of "Conventional Petroleum Oil Vs. Synthetic Oil: Does The End Justify The Means?" fewer changes and improved efficiency reduces oil waste, making synthetic oils a better choice for the environment.
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Better Protection
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Because synthetic oils are uniformly smooth and can withstand higher temperatures they provide better protection against heat, friction and wear on the engine. Petroleum oils contain waxes and other ingredients that can thicken in cold temperatures which can make it difficult for the engine to start. Synthetic oils do not have this weakness.
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References
- Photo Credit OIL image by brelsbil from Fotolia.com
