Using Synthetic Oil

Synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional oil. Even so, it should be changed at no more than twice the time or mileage interval allowed for conventional oil. However, the filter should still be changed according to intervals for conventional petroleum-based oils. Although it is possible to use the oil for longer intervals because of its chemical stability, the oil still accumulates contaminants that are best removed through an oil change.

You should consider using synthetic oil if your engine is subjected to extreme heat, extreme cold or high stress. It is especially helpful in small, high speed engines or turbocharged engines. Synthetic oil can also be used for continuous severe driving conditions such as trailer towing, extremely hot or cold driving, mountain driving, stop and go city driving, prolonged highway driving, or racing. However, in most situations, a quality conventional oil of high service rating is adequate.

If switching from petroleum-based oil to synthetic oil, consult a professional automotive technician. Follow the synthetic oil manufacturer's recommendations. Note that engine warranties may be voided if oil and filter changes do not occur at the vehicle manufacturer's recommended intervals, which are determined as if conventional petroleum-based oil were being used. Use of synthetic oil should not invalidate any vehicle warranty as long as it meets the correct SAE viscosity and API service ratings. However, to avoid wasting money by frequently changing expensive synthetic oil sooner than necessary, it may be better to switch to synthetic oil after the engine warranty expires.

It is possible to mix synthetic oil and conventional oil of the same service rating. This gives the regular oil greater lubricating and cleaning abilities. One or two quarts used in a 4 or 5 quart oil system would effectively act as almost pure synthetic oil.

Synthetic oils should not be used in high mileage engines because their superior cleaning abilities will dislodge any deposits that may be acting as seals. The engine will then burn oil. These oils should only be used in low mileage engines. Even so, the engine should be broken in (say, the first 2,500 miles) with a petroleum-based oil so the parts wear in and mesh properly. Synthetic oil lubricates so well that initial break-in would not be completed.


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