You’ve probably heard of the terms synthetic motor oil and conventional motor oil. But do you know the difference? Do you know the benefits and disadvantages of each?

You can probably guess that synthetic motor oil has some sort of man-made elements to it while conventional motor oil is the stuff pumped from the ground. Obviously, there are more differences between the two types of oil.

Synthetic oil was developed during the 1970s. Synthetic oil is oil, but it is created through chemical reactions. Scientists chemically combined different molecules to create a lubricant that is free of metals and other elements.

Conventional oil is pumped from the ground and goes through a refining process to remove contaminants and metals. No matter how much the oil is refined, it will not be as pure as synthetic oil.

• Conventional Oil Benefits: Conventional oil is a fairly reliable lubricant for your vehicle. One of the major benefits is cost. It is typically cheaper than most synthetic oils.
• Conventional Oil Disadvantages: Conventional oil does not work well under extreme temperatures. In the extreme cold, conventional oil can become tick and gooey. In extreme heat, conventional oil can break down.
• Synthetic Oil Benefits: Synthetic oils can handle extreme conditions because they were developed in laboratories for extreme performance. Because of its chemical makeup, synthetic oils reduce wear, giving your car or truck a cleaner engine.
• Synthetic Oil Disadvantages: The major disadvantage with synthetic oils is price.

When selecting between synthetic and conventional motor oil, it’s usually better to go with synthetic oil. However, always consult with your car or truck’s owner manual or a mechanic before getting an oil change.

Before you get a Phoenix oil change or a Las Cruces oil change, be sure to talk to your mechanic about synthetic and conventional motor oil.