Synthetic Oil vs. Regular Oil: What’s the Difference?

When you want your vehicle to run smoothly on the Kansas City roads, it’s important that you get regular oil changes. When you’re getting ready to schedule an oil change, you’ll realize that there are two main types of oil that include synthetic and conventional oil. But, what are their differences? At the end of the day, when you compare synthetic vs. conventional oil, you’ll find that they’re both engine oils that have the main goal of lubricating and protecting vehicle engines. However, there are some differences between the two options. Technically, you should be using the oil type that’s recommended for your vehicle per your owner’s manual. Using anything other than the recommended oil type could result in your vehicle breaking down on your Shawnee Mission adventures. However, if you want to closely compare conventional vs. synthetic oil, we’ve got you covered. Learn about these two oil types today with the service experts at Hendrick Chevrolet Shawnee Mission!

Conventional vs. Synthetic Oil

When you get an oil change at our dealership, we’ll often use what’s best for your vehicle. However, if you like to tackle DIY oil changes in your own Overland Park garage, you’ll want to compare synthetic vs. conventional oil so that you get the right one to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Let’s stack up conventional vs. synthetic oil below:

Conventional/Regular Oil

Conventional oil is also referred to as regular oil. It has been used in vehicles for a long time and provides lubrication to your vehicle’s engine. Conventional oil is petroleum-based and is distilled from crude oil that’s mined from the ground. Regular oil serves as an incredible fluid to ensure that your vehicle’s engine is working properly. Conventional oil is typically less expensive than synthetic oil, however, you will have to get oil changes more often.

Full Synthetic Oil

Full synthetic is also petroleum-based. However, the main difference between synthetic and conventional oil is that synthetic oil breaks down slower than conventional oil. It features additives that allow it to be more stable over time and under stress in the engine. As a result, full synthetic oil can often go much longer in between oil changes. However, synthetic oil is typically more expensive than conventional oil.

What Is a Synthetic Oil Blend?

Now that we’ve compared synthetic oil and conventional oil, you’ve likely also heard about synthetic oil blends. Synthetic oil blends are a blend of both synthetic and conventional oil. This allows it to have enhanced properties similar to a full synthetic oil while also remaining inexpensive like conventional oil. Some vehicles may require full synthetic oil, so be sure you reference the owner’s manual of your vehicle, regardless of which oil type you use.

We Can Help You Compare Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil at Hendrick Chevrolet Shawnee Mission!

Can’t decide between the right type of oil to keep your vehicle running smoothly as you drive around Merriam? We can help! Simply get in touch with our experts online or stop by at our service center and we’ll help you find the right oil for your ride.