Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil: Which Is Best for Your Car?
Compare synthetic and conventional motor oil to make the right choice for your vehicle. Learn about benefits, costs, and recommended change intervals.
Choosing the Right Motor Oil Matters
Motor oil is your engine's lifeblood. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, cools the engine, and keeps harmful deposits from forming. But with so many options available, how do you choose?
What's the Difference?
Conventional Oil
Conventional oil is refined directly from crude oil. It's been used in vehicles for over a century and works well for many applications.
Pros:
- Less expensive ($30-$50 for oil change)
- Widely available
- Adequate for older vehicles with simpler engines
Cons:
- Breaks down faster under heat and stress
- Requires more frequent changes (every 3,000-5,000 miles)
- Less effective in extreme temperatures
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is chemically engineered for optimal performance. It starts with crude oil but is extensively processed and enhanced with additives.
Pros:
- Superior engine protection
- Better performance in extreme temperatures
- Longer change intervals (7,500-15,000 miles)
- Improved fuel economy
- Resists breakdown better
Cons:
- Higher cost ($65-$125 for oil change)
- May not be necessary for all vehicles
AAA's Independent Testing Results
According to AAA testing, synthetic oils outperformed conventional oils by an average of 47% across various performance measures.
Which Oil Should You Use?
Use Synthetic If:
- Your owner's manual requires it
- You drive in extreme temperatures (very hot or cold)
- You do a lot of stop-and-go driving
- You tow heavy loads
- You want longer intervals between oil changes
- Your vehicle has a turbocharged engine
Conventional May Be Fine If:
- Your owner's manual recommends it
- You drive mostly highway miles
- Your vehicle is older with simpler engine design
- You change oil frequently anyway
Synthetic Blend: The Middle Ground
Synthetic blend oils combine conventional and synthetic oil, offering:
- Better protection than conventional
- Lower cost than full synthetic
- A good compromise for many drivers
Oil Change Intervals
Conventional Oil: Every 3,000-5,000 miles
Synthetic Blend: Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Full Synthetic: Every 7,500-15,000 miles (check your owner's manual)
Important: Always follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations, regardless of oil type.
The Cost Calculation
While synthetic costs more per change, consider the math:
Conventional: $45 × 4 changes per year = $180/year
Synthetic: $100 × 2 changes per year = $200/year
The difference is minimal, and synthetic provides better protection.
Signs You Need an Oil Change
- Oil change reminder light
- Dark, dirty oil on dipstick
- Engine running louder than usual
- Oil smells burnt
- Exhaust smoke
- Oil level dropping between changes
Mobile Oil Change Service in NYC
NYC Mobile Auto Assist offers convenient mobile oil changes at your home or office. We use quality conventional and synthetic oils and include:
- Oil and filter change
- Multi-point inspection
- Fluid top-offs
- Tire pressure check
No more waiting at oil change shops. We come to you anywhere in the five boroughs.
Need Professional Help?
NYC Mobile Auto Assist provides expert mobile mechanic services throughout all five boroughs. We come to you!