How Long Does Synthetic Oil Last?
Oil is an important element that keeps a car engine running through a process of internal combustion. That lubricant can be synthetic or conventional oil and the former has the edge over the latter. But how long does synthetic oil last? Is the oil change interval similar to its traditional counterpart, or has a longer lifespan?
The engines in some older vehicles may not be compatible with synthetic oil, but newer engines are engineered for it. Many manufacturers recommend using this oil to keep the warranty coverage valid.
Synthetic Oil Basics
What is synthetic oil?
Synthetic oil is a lubricant which is created artificially from chemical combinations. Some people create this oil by combining raw materials, while others chemically change conventional oil to produce synthetic oil.
Synthetic oil is the most expensive of all types of lubricants used for running the engine. It has a longer lifespan and protects against heat, erosion, and sludge. There is also a synthetic blend that offers better performance than conventional oil and costs less than pure synthetic oil.
What is the difference between synthetic and conventional oil?
Synthetic oil and conventional oil are two types of lubricants used in engines. The main differences between them lie in their composition, manufacturing process, performance, and price. Here are the key distinctions:
Composition
Conventional oil is derived from crude oil through a refining process. It contains a mixture of hydrocarbons and various impurities. Synthetic oil, on the other hand, is chemically engineered using a combination of base oils and additives. It is designed to have a more uniform molecular structure, resulting in consistent performance characteristics.
Performance
Synthetic oil generally offers superior performance compared to conventional oil. It has better viscosity characteristics, meaning it maintains its optimal thickness and lubricating properties over a wider temperature range. Synthetic oil also provides improved resistance to oxidation, sludge formation, and engine deposits. It tends to offer better engine protection, especially under high-stress conditions and during cold starts.
Longevity
Synthetic oil typically has a longer lifespan than conventional oil. It resists breakdown and degradation better, allowing for extended oil change intervals. This can help reduce maintenance frequency and costs. Conventional oil, on the other hand, may require more frequent changes to ensure optimal engine protection.
Manufacture
By combining a group of high-quality base oils that are purity and viscosity, chemists also add many extra chemicals such as Antioxidants, detergents, anti-foaming additives, and viscosity index improvers,…
By doing this, synthetic oil has many outstanding features, along with oil characteristics from the quality base oils and various quantities from chemical components. This also provides cleanliness which is an enemy for contamination.
How Long Does Synthetic Oil Last?
Synthetic oil is the most expensive of all types of lubricants used for running the engine. It has a longer lifespan and protects against heat, erosion, and sludge. There is also a synthetic blend that offers better performance than conventional oil and costs less than pure synthetic oil.
So, how long does synthetic oil last? Well, the additives and detergents in it make sure an extended life. It wears out at a slow rate because its chemical base makes it thick at low temperatures and thin at high temperatures.
Depending on the brands, synthetic oil can last for 5,000 to 15,000 miles. Some companies like Mobil 1 and Royal Purple offer better products than other brands.
Remember that the life expectancy of synthetic oil depends not only on the additives present in it but also on a few other factors like resistance to oxidation and viscosity tolerance at various temperatures.
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What Is The Oil Change Interval For Synthetic Oil?
Most car servicing businesses recommend changing oil every 3,000 miles. The truth is that the rule is nothing but a marketing gimmick. Older formulations of mineral-based oil may need to maintain that changing routine, but it does not apply to engine lubricants these days. Even conventional oil offers a longer lifespan.
The oil changing schedule of synthetic oil is at least one year or 5,000 miles. However, it depends on the car model, oil quality, and brand. For example, Kia and Hyundai models with turbocharged engines need to change the oil every 5,000 miles while the oil used for Toyota and Jaguar vehicles can last up to 10,000 and 15,000 miles, respectively.
Considering brands for automotive lubrication products, Mobil 1 is on top with a high-performance oil with an extended lifespan. It lasts up to 15,000 miles given you are using a premium oil filter, and the engine is compatible with this lubricant.
Factors That Shorten The Life Of Engine Oil
How long does synthetic oil last? You already know the answer. However, several factors can cut that lifespan short. Synthetic oil may not perform to your expectation for the following factors:
- The engine in older vehicles. Engines in newer cars are more compatible with synthetic oil.
- Performance vehicles. Performance-based engines require more oil changes they burn the fuel at a faster rate.
- Driving style. Rough driving and aggressive acceleration shorten the life of engine oil.
- Hauling heavy stuff. The engine works harder when you are towing cargo around.
- Extreme climate conditions. Extreme cold and heat put more strain on the oil.
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FAQs about Synthetic Oil
How many miles can you go on full synthetic oil?
You can go full synthetic oil for around 7,500 miles. The automobile manufacturers recommend going around 6000 to 7500 miles with normal oil, yet synthetic oil lifespan can be extended to around 7,500 miles. So 7,500 miles is the closest answer to the question of how long can you go on synthetic oil.
How many months does synthetic oil last?
How long does full synthetic oil last is one of the most common questions for drivers. The synthetic oil can last for six months or from 10,000 to 15,000 miles.
Is it bad to go 7000 miles without an oil change?
Even though synthetic oil can last longer than 7000 miles, normal oils need to be changed from 7000 to 8000 miles since oil will be dirty and sludgy over time. Worn-out oil will drop the cooling function, as well as affect the engine’s internal.
Will synthetic oil cause leaks?
If the seals and gaskets are perfect, the synthetic oil will never leak in your engine. Synthetic oil will not create the leaks or damage the engine’s seal. However, just like any type of oil, it can find an existing leak.
Can you use regular oil after synthetic?
This depends on the condition of your current engine, along with the oil being used. However, changing between synthetic oil and conventional oil will not affect the automobile. By using synthetic oils, car owners can protect the engine much better than conventional oils.
Does synthetic oil add horsepower?
Yes. Synthetic oils not only provide engine wear protection, but they also raise horsepower because of their ability to decrease friction. Compared with conventional oil, synthetic oil resists heat better.
Do you have to change synthetic oil every year?
It depends on the mile range in that year: Manufacturers recommend changing synthetic oil after 7500 to 10,000 miles. So if you are not driving a lot, it is not necessary to change the oil every year.
Which is better: synthetic or mineral oil?
Both synthetic and mineral oil are both superior types of oil that every car owner can trust. So it is recommended to understand their technical characteristics. Overall, mineral oil will shorten oil change intervals, as well as increase oil consumption. On the other hand, synthetic oil meets all the requirements from new to older cars. For that reason, synthetic oil is better.