How Upgrading To Synthetic Engine Oil Can Save You Money Long-Term
Synthetic engine oils are an increasingly popular alternative in many shops and garages. Unlike standard engine oils, synthetic oil is refined for greater purity and treated with additional chemicals to improve performance. Although they are slightly more expensive up front, upgrading to a synthetic product during your next oil change may save you much more money in the long run. These are the four main ways synthetic oils can be a wise investment for your engine.
Going Longer Between Oil Changes
Synthetic oil, being more pure, has a longer working lifespan than conventional oil. A study conducted by AAA found that synthetic oil averaged about five dollars more per month than standard. It offset this, however, by lasting nearly 50 percent longer on average. Even if you stick to your regular oil change schedule, you can rest assured knowing your oil is still performing as expected, instead of breaking down.
Improving Performance at High and Low Temperatures
If you live in an area that experiences hot summers, cold winters, or both, your standard oil may struggle to keep up. In the past, car owners were forced to change their oil type for summer and winter. Modern natural oils can operate across a reasonable range of temperatures but will still thin out under intense heat or thicken after a long freeze. Synthetic oils maintain their ideal viscosity under both hot and cold conditions. This makes them ideal for areas that experience temperatures outside the typical range, ensuring your car will start on even the frostiest mornings.
Preventing Engine Damage
As oil breaks down, it becomes less effective at lubricating the parts of an engine. This leads to increased friction and, as a result, greater wear on the engine over time. While this may not be noticeable for years, it will eventually shorten the lifespan of your vehicle. One way to avoid this is to have your oil changed more often. The other is to use synthetic oils, which break down at a much slower rate. By protecting your car with a more refined oil, you may prevent expensive repairs and breakdowns.
Keeping Your Engine Running Clean
The byproduct of degrading oil is a dirty, oily sludge that can quickly build up inside an engine. These can impede moving parts, pushing them slightly out of alignment. When paired with the lower efficiency of conventional oils, they can begin to put real strain on your vehicle. Synthetic products lose this debris during the refinement process, meaning they will keep your car running cleaner. When it comes to saving money on your car, the long-term benefits of synthetic oil outweigh its slightly higher price. For more information, contact companies like Small & Sons Oil Dist Co.