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There are three main types of engine oil that you or your mechanic can put in your vehicle: conventional, synthetic, and semi-synthetic oil. Each type of motor has its pros and cons that you should consider. More importantly, your manufacturer might have a preference or guidelines on which type is best suitable for your vehicle. To be sure, you should refer to your owner’s manual before changing your motor oil.
3 Types of Motor Oil
- Conventional Oil – Conventional (aka. mineral oil or traditional oil) is the least refined of the three types, but it has been around for the longest. Conventional oil is the cheapest option, requiring more frequent changes. It is the most common type of oil, and it is most suitable for engines with simple designs or high mileage vehicles.
- Synthetic Oil – Synthetic oil, on the other hand, is man-made and specially engineered to be more consistent and last longer between changes. Since it is synthetic, it has added chemical properties that help it withstand high temperatures and prevent corrosion. It is the most expensive option of the three engine oils.
- Semi-Synthetic Oil – As the name suggests, this type of oil is a blend of synthetic and conventional oils. It is a happy medium, offering the many benefits of synthetic oil at a more fair price. As you can probably guess, synthetic blends last longer than conventional oils, but not as long as fully synthetic oils.
Typical additives in oil improve its viscosity and extend its wear, and they are more common in synthetic blends. While synthetic oils are more costly, they are much better for your engine and can save you money in the long run. They’re also justifiable, considering you don’t have to have your oil changed as often.
If you require an oil change in Austin, TX, and surrounding areas, bring your vehicle to Terry Sayther Automotive today. Our team looks forward to discussing your oil options with you!