Synthetic vs Conventional Oil
When your ride of choice is cruising through Egg Harbor or Vineland and happens to be a high-performance luxury vehicle like a BMW, you may have heard rumblings about the benefits of using synthetic oil instead of conventional oil. What exactly is the difference, though? Also, what should you use for you next oil change?
We at BMW of Atlantic City are here to help you understand the synthetic oil vs. conventional oil debate. Read on to learn about the qualities you’ll find in both oils.
Synthetic vs Conventional Oil: What’s the Difference?
As you might guess, conventional oil is the traditional type of engine oil that you’re probably more familiar with. It is refined from crude oil, a naturally occurring fossil fuel. Meanwhile, synthetic oil simulates some qualities of the conventional stuff while adapting to the workings of modern engines. It’s really a miracle of modern chemical engineering.
With synthetic oils, you’re getting premium quality, as they generally have several advantages over more conventional sources. BMW recommends synthetic oil for use in its engines. Every car is different, however, so you should check your vehicle owner’s manual to find out which oil works best in your specific situation.
Synthetic Oil & Wear Protection
Generally speaking, synthetic engine oil will protect your car better (and for longer) than conventional oils can. Over time, all oil breaks down. It’s part of the natural process of the oils moving through your engine. However, synthetic oil is made to resist sludge formation, which helps your engine stay cleaner in the long run.
Since synthetic oil is more resistant to breaking down, it can protect your engine from damage (typically caused by friction and overheating) for longer. Traditional oil often needs to be changed every 5,000 miles, but synthetic oil can last as long as 10,000 miles-and, in some cases, even longer.
Synthetic Oil in Extreme Temperatures
Another benefit of synthetic oil is how well it holds up in extreme temperatures. It’s engineered to resist heat better and break down more slowly than conventional oil, so driving in high temperatures won’t be a problem. Even if you’re not often driving in high temperatures, your engine will generate heat just by running, so the benefits still apply.
In cold temperatures, conventional oils generally take longer to warm up to the ideal temperature for use as an engine lubricant. Synthetic oils are engineered to resist the effects of the cold, giving them a major advantage when you’re driving through Egg Harbor or Vineland in the winter.
Weigh the Options for Your Next Oil Change
Most drivers know regularly scheduled oil changes will extend the life of their ride-but using synthetic oil can, too, especially for many luxury brands, like BMW. If you’re ready to schedule your next oil change and are interested in using synthetic oil, make your service appointment at BMW of Atlantic City.
Our first-rate technicians have the knowledge and experience to advise you on the type of oil you should use for your specific make and model, and they’ll have your car road-ready before you know it!