Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil

Here at the Ken Ganley Kia Medina service center, we take pride in our ability to provide car owners from Cleveland to Strongsville and far beyond with a wide range of automotive service & maintenance expertise. If you’ve been scratching your head and wondering what the difference between synthetic vs. regular oil is, or the major distinctions between full synthetic oil vs. synthetic blends, then this piece is for you. Read on to find out, then contact us with any remaining questions by calling 330-721-9500!

What is Conventional (Regular) Oil?

Conventional 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?

What are the major distinctions between synthetic oil vs. regular 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 Does Full Synthetic Oil vs. Synthetic Blends Differ?

So we’ve covered the differences between synthetic oil vs. conventional oil. 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 new or pre-owned Kia vehicle! Be sure to check your owner’s manual if in doubt about what kind of oil your car requires.

Schedule an Oil Change in Medina Now!

Looking to take better care of your vehicle by scheduling an oil change appointment near Brunswick? 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!