Oil changes are required maintenance for vehicles. Oil lubricates the moving parts in your engine so it can continue to operate properly. Your mechanic or regular oil change place may have recommended a full synthetic oil change for your car. You may be wondering why synthetic oil is important for your car. Well, it’s important to know what synthetic oil is and how it benefits your car.
Synthetic oil is a substitute for petroleum-refined oils. A full synthetic oil change uses an engine lubricant made from artificially made chemical compounds. Many new and later model cars require a full synthetic oil change. Some European cars such as Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagon, high-performance cars, along with some new Hondas, Toyotas, Subaru require synthetic oil. Your owner’s manual will indicate if synthetic oil is required for your car. Whether required or not, many experts agree that synthetic oil offers several advantages over conventional oil.
Prolonged Engine Life
Synthetic oils are used primarily to reduce engine wear during cold start-up and drive-away. Driving a lot of short trips doesn’t give the oil in your car enough time to warm up. This heat is necessary to burn off impurities. Conventional oil breaks down quickly which makes it less effective with absorbing heat and lubricating the engine. Synthetic oil doesn’t degrade as quickly, so it protects the engine from overheating due to extensive driving or the strain of hauling and towing heavyweight items.
Sludge Buildup Prevention
Older engines benefit from synthetic oil’s ability to reduce sludge. When oil breaks down within the engine, sludge is produced. This residue can block the passage of oil through the engine and cause damage. Some engines are more prone to sludge buildup. A full synthetic oil change is beneficial in resisting breakdown that forms sludge.
Withstands Extreme Temperatures
Compared to conventional oils, synthetic oils handle high temperatures better. The synthetic oil is thinner and transfers heat better allowing the engine to run cooler. This allows the synthetic oil to last longer meaning the interval for your full synthetic oil change is longer.
Improved Fuel Economy
The fuel economy improves by as much as 3 percent with a full synthetic oil change. The thin nature of synthetic oil makes it easier to pump, which reduces energy use.
Extended Oil Change Periods
Synthetic oil has a higher resistance to breakdown than conventional oil, allowing a longer interval between oil changes. Although this is a big advantage, you still need to be careful not to go beyond the manufacturer’s suggested interval. You also need to monitor the oil levels so it does not get too low.
Environmentally Responsible
Synthetic oil presents an environmental advantage. Used oil is toxic to the environment. Although oil can be recycled, some people improperly dispose of motor oil by throwing away in trash cans and pouring onto the ground or into storm drains. The oil then pollutes the soil, groundwater, and drinking water. The fewer oil changes required with synthetic oil produces less waste.
Getting a Full Synthetic Oil Change at Xpress Lube
A full synthetic oil change has many advantages. Having regular oil changes from a qualified mechanic will give your vehicle a long and healthy life. At Kernersville Xpress Lube, our trained technicians service all vehicles and can recommend the right oil for your car. Our service uses high-quality products and includes an inspection of your car. Stop by today for your full synthetic oil change.
