15 May Top Myths About Synthetic Oil

Synthetic motor oil has been a hot issue for a long time, and it isn’t going away anytime soon, especially now that many automakers are using synthetic oil in their engines right out of the factory. Synthetic motor oil has a number of benefits over normal motor oil. Yet, myths about synthetic oil persist. Following are the top myths about synthetic oil.

Synthetic Motor Oil Isn’t “Real” Engine Oil

There is a myth that synthetic oil is “fake” oil. However, this is not the case. The term “synthetic” relates to the technique of how it’s made in the lab, rather than the material itself. While multiple base oil stocks are utilized in the manufacturing process (from one product to the next), most synthetic motor oils start out as a highly refined petroleum-based base oil. Synthetic oils are more aptly distinguished by their molecular homogeneity, lack of contaminants, and capacity to include high-quality additions.

You Can’t Go Back After You’ve Switched to Synthetic

Despite the fact that this myth endures, it is just untrue.  Many engines are sent from the manufacturer using conventional, or “regular” oil. However, this number is steadily declining. Because traditional oil doesn’t last as long or provide as much protection as synthetic oil, many vehicle owners and manufacturers prefer to convert to using synthetic oil.

In reality, they’re completely compatible. Products labeled as “semi-synthetic” or “synthetic blend” are really a combination of synthetic and traditional oil. It is advised that you use the same oil that is currently in your engine when you “top off” your oil, however this is more for the sake of giving the optimum performance and protection. There’s no need to go back to conventional oil after switching to synthetic. You could, though, if you wanted to.

Synthetic Oil Shouldn’t be Used in High-Mileage Vehicles

This is, once again, untrue. This narrative is based on the experiences of some car owners who replaced their high-mileage engines with synthetic oil and later discovered oil leaks. That is possible, but not because synthetic oil is harmful to your engine. Because old traditional oil cakes up in the engine crevices, the seals of an old engine might wear out without the owner knowing it. Synthetic oil’s cleaning power removes the filth, but it can also lead to a leak. Synthetic oil is actually an excellent choice for a well-maintained older engine. Synthetic oils include additives and conditioners that help to extend the life of engine seals. Therefore, synthetic oil is a fantastic choice for high-mileage automobiles.

Your New Car’s Warranty Will be Voided if You Use Synthetic Oil

This is a fallacy. In fact, the opposite is true. If you flip that around and say that using conventional oil will void your warranty, you’re getting closer to the truth. Many automobile manufacturers have switched to synthetic fuel. If your vehicle’s engine came with synthetic oil from the factory, you must use it for the rest of the vehicle’s life. The warranty may be invalidated if conventional oil is used. The only caveat is if you have a Mazda with a rotary engine, in which case you have to use traditional oil.

Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s handbook for information on the kind and weight of oil necessary for your vehicle, as well as the recommended interval between oil changes. Then, when it comes to switching to synthetic oil, get advice from a reputable repair shop. Contact us for more information.