Synthetic Oils: Should You Use Them?

Some people judge synthetic oils too harshly. Just because they're synthetic, doesn't mean they're fake--and requires less of our attention.

Synthetic oils are artificial lubricants. They are manufactured using chemically-modified petroleum components instead of crude oil, although its basest material is still distilled crude oil.

Whatever the case, synthetic oil is popular because some can actually do far better than regular oil. There are even engine oils that allow your vehicle to last longer compared to using the regular ones. There are also some that are actually cheaper--and can last longer--than the standard oil available in the market today.

But more than the savings you get, synthetic oil can provide better lubrication that can help in improving your car engine's power, fuel efficiency, and even life. The reason? Many are chemically produced (or even customized) to work on breaking specific problems, like oil sludge, oxidation, and thermal problems.

There are two types of synthetic oil: Synthetic Blend Motor Oil, which is a combination synthetic and conventional base oils for greater resistance to oxidation, corrosion, and extreme temperature; and Fully Synthetic Oil, a synthetic base stock plus different additives to improve engine oil performance and increased mileage.

How to Choose the Right Engine Oil for Your Vehicle

Common sense dictates that you choose engine oils that your car manual tells you to use--which is actually one of the smartest things you can do.  It's also good to read unbiased reviews about these oils to see how they perform really well.

A word of warning, though: there are different ways of disposing them, so make sure you read the directions very well.

Whatever the case, don't scrimp on synthetic oils if you can. They're a good investment--especially if you want your vehicle to perform better and last a long time.