Synthetic, synthetic blend, conventional, high mileage—the choices seem to be endless when it comes to engine oil selection. However, using the correct engine oil type is one of the most important things you can do for you car because as it is frequently said “oil is the lifeblood of your engine.” Read on to learn more about each type of oil and how to pick the best one for your car or truck.
What are the Different Oil Types?
To choose the proper type of oil for your vehicle, you need to first understand the differences between each kinds of oil on the market. Here’s a quick rundown of the major kinds of oil.
- Conventional Oil: Conventional oil is made from petroleum, or crude oil. It is the most affordable kind of oil and is often used in older passenger vehicles. The problem with conventional oils is they tend to not perform well in extreme temperatures. They may also contain impurities that high quality types of oil do not.
- Synthetic Oil: Synthetic oil is oil that has by chemically engineered to contain fewer impurities than conventional oils. Moreover, synthetic oil tends to perform better at high and low temperatures than conventional oils do. The main disadvantage to synthetic oil is that it tends to be more expensive than conventional oil. Also, when taking this factor into consideration you should know that the damage caused to your car or truck by adding the wrong oil to it could be costlier.
- Synthetic Blend Oil: This is a mixture of conventional and synthetic oil. People often use this oil as a bridge for switching from conventional oil to full synthetic. Synthetic blend is usually more expensive than conventional oil but does offer greater engine protection than conventional oil.
- High Mileage Oil: This oil type is designed for cars that have more than 75k miles on them. It contains additives that are specifically designed to protect older engines. Other additives to this kind of oil help prevent leaks, restores seals, etc.
Which Oil Type is Best for you?
So, at the end of the day which of the above kind of oil is best for your car? Here are some key factors to help you make this determination. 
Age of your car: If you have an older vehicle you may wish to use high mileage oil for engines with 75k or more on them. Synthetic oil is usually sufficient for cars with fewer miles on them.
Driving style: If you drive short distances you may wish to choose synthetic oil.
Climate: Multi-weight oils cover a range of temperatures.
Owner’s manual: Your owner’s manual usually makes his recommendation.
With all this in mind, remember that frequent oil changes, as well as frequent filter changes, play a key role in keeping an engine running for the long haul. That is why oil change service is so important. So, if you need synthetic oil change visit us here in Torrance, CA.
