What Is Synthetic Oil? Benefits, Uses, and How It Works

Synthetic oil offers modern vehicles advanced protection to extend engine longevity. Understanding the difference between synthetic and conventional oil lets you determine if synthetic oil is the appropriate choice for your vehicle. 

The guide below includes everything you need to know about synthetic oil. 

What Is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil contains fewer impurities and a more uniform molecular structure than conventional oil, which remains the most common and affordable type of engine oil available. 

While synthetic, conventional, and synthetic blend oils all come from refined crude oil, synthetic oil undergoes further purification to remove contaminants typically found in conventional and synthetic blend oils. 

After purification, synthetic oils are combined with a superior additive package designed to improve lubrication, reduce wear, and protect engines under demanding conditions.

Synthetic blend oils are a middle ground between conventional and synthetic oils. With greater performance than conventional oils at a lower price point than full synthetic oils, synthetic blends are popular among consumers who want more from their engine oil without paying premium prices. 

Consumers can also select from high-mileage synthetic oil variants to extend the life of commercial and fleet vehicles. These specially formulated synthetic oils support longer engine life, reduce oil consumption, and protect aging seals. They may also contain extra detergents to keep engines cleaner and running longer. 

How Does Synthetic Oil Protect Your Engine?

The protective qualities of synthetic oil stem from its carefully engineered composition and corresponding additive packages. Synthetic oils resist thermal breakdown better than conventional oils, which often oxidize, degrade, and form deposits at higher temperatures. Rather than losing their lubricating properties, synthetic oils maintain optimal viscosity and stability. 

When it comes to reducing friction between moving parts, a synthetic oil’s uniform structure enables it to consistently lubricate metal components without negatively affecting fuel efficiency. Synthetic oil also prevents sludge and varnish buildup via detergents and dispersants. A cleaner engine contributes to extended component life and smoother performance over time. 

Synthetic oils are also formulated to protect engine seals and reduce oil consumption. For example, specific additives help condition seals to prevent leaks and maintain proper oil pressure. Enhanced oxidation resistance also means synthetic oil breaks down more slowly, extending both oil life and time between oil changes. 

Common Synthetic Oil Applications

Synthetic oil is particularly common among modern passenger cars and SUVs, many of which require synthetic oil (per the manufacturer’s recommendations) due to their advanced engine designs. 

For example, high-performance and turbocharged engines benefit greatly from synthetic oil use because it is designed to withstand these operating conditions. In addition, drivers in climates that experience extreme temperatures often choose synthetic oil to protect the engine from premature wear and potential failure. 

Heavy-duty and high-mileage vehicles often benefit from synthetic oils as well. The oil variant’s ability to protect against wear, deposits, corrosion, and other weathering factors offers protection when and where the aging engine needs it most. 

In summary, synthetic oils best suit applications where engine reliability and performance, especially in extreme conditions, are vital. 

Benefits of Synthetic Oil

The best synthetic oil can help extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s engine and save you money on oil changes. However, it can be an expensive commitment to uphold, at least initially. 

Below are additional benefits of using synthetic oil in your car: 

• Better lubrication: Synthetic oil’s unique molecular structure reduces friction to minimize wear and help engine parts move smoothly.

• Enhance engine protection: Synthetic oil protects sensitive engine components by retaining its viscosity and lubricating properties longer. 

• Cleaner engine: Synthetic oils are more resistant to sludge and deposit information, keeping modern engines cleaner for longer periods. 

• Improved performance across temperature ranges: Stable and effective at both low and high temperatures, synthetic oil ensures protection during cold starts and under heavy engine loads. 

• Extended oil life: Synthetic motor oils degrade more slowly than conventional oils, extending the lubricant’s overall lifespan. 

• Improved fuel economy: Reduced friction and better engine efficiency can lead to slight improvements in fuel economy. 

Many drivers often wonder how long synthetic oil lasts. While most synthetic oil change intervals range from every 7,500 miles to 10,000 miles, some can go up to 15,000 miles between oil changes. Consult your owner’s manual for recommended oil change intervals. 

When To Choose Synthetic Oil Over Conventional Oil

Choosing synthetic oil over conventional oil depends on several factors that relate to your vehicle, driving habits, and the operating environment. 

Many modern cars come with manufacturer recommendations for synthetic oil. Following these guidelines remains vital to maintaining warranty coverage and ensuring optimal engine health. 

Drivers who frequently take short trips, tow heavy loads, or operate under extreme conditions should consider switching to synthetic oil if they haven’t already. Synthetic oils handle moisture and contaminants better than conventional oils and can withstand high stress and extreme temperatures. 

Vehicles typically subject to cold starts can also benefit from synthetic oil’s stability in colder climates. 

Final Thoughts on Synthetic Oil

Despite a higher upfront price, synthetic oil offers significant potential cost savings. Regardless of the oil type you choose, sourcing the best synthetic oil from Cadence helps ensure your car benefits from high-quality lubricants. 

Call us at 336-629-2061 to discuss your motor oil needs with a friendly and knowledgeable Cadence representative. 

Sources:

Should You Use Synthetic Oil in Your Car? | Consumer Reports

What is Viscosity? | GeeksforGeeks

Types of Oil | US EPA

Refining crude oil - the refining process | U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)