Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil

Here at the Executive Volkswagen of North Haven service center, we take pride in our ability to provide car owners from Meriden to Watertown and far beyond with a wide range of automotive service and maintenance expertise. If you’ve been scratching your head and wondering, “What’s the difference between synthetic vs. regular oil?”, then this piece is for you! Read on to find out, then contact us with any remaining questions!

What is Conventional (Regular) Oil?

Conventional oil, or “regular” oil is a petroleum-based substance that has been used in internal combustion engines for many years to provide lubrication to internal parts and reduce engine wear. Motor oil is essentially distilled from crude oil that’s mined from the ground, and it also serves to protect your car’s engine from high temperatures.

What is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil is petroleum-based like regular oil, but it provides enhanced lubrication properties and is more stable. Synthetic oils oxidize less easily than conventional oils and are also better at retaining protective properties. They’re chemically developed from petrochemicals in intense processes to provide pinpointed properties that make them superior (and also more expensive) than conventional oils. Synthetic oils also:

• Are less viscous at lower temperatures
• Offer enhanced engine cleaning properties
• Better protect critical turbocharger parts (when equipped)

How Do Full Synthetic vs. Synthetic Blends Differ?

In addition to synthetic oils and conventional oils (often called mineral oils), there are synthetic blends. These, as you might expect, are made up of part synthetic oil and part conventional oil, which helps to reduce the cost vs. choosing full synthetic, but also provides enhanced properties vs. standard conventional oil.

Note: Some vehicles require full synthetic oil, and that could just include your Volkswagen vehicle! Be sure to check your owner’s manual or contact our service experts if in doubt about what kind of oil your car requires.

Schedule an Oil Change in North Haven Now!

Looking to take better care of your vehicle by scheduling an oil change? Do that online right now from the comfort of your home! Remember to also check out our service specials to save money on your next vehicle repair or oil change appointment!