Decoding Synthetic Oils: Your Comprehensive Guide to Benefits, Myths, and Best Practices

Synthetic oils have become increasingly popular in the automotive world due to their advanced composition and superior performance. Understanding the benefits, dispelling common myths, and following best practices will help you make informed decisions about using synthetic oils in your vehicle. Here’s your guide to decoding synthetic oils.

Benefits of synthetic oils

• Enhanced lubrication: Synthetic oils provide better lubrication than conventional oil, ensuring reduced friction and wear on engine components. This is especially beneficial during cold starts and high-temperature conditions.
• Extended drain intervals: Due to their resistance to thermal breakdown, synthetic oils often allow for longer periods between oil changes. This not only saves money but is also environmentally friendly.
• Cold-weather performance: Synthetic oils flow more easily in cold temperatures, ensuring quicker engine startup and better protection in harsh winter conditions.
• Fuel efficiency: The reduced friction offered by synthetic oils contributes to improved fuel efficiency, helping you get more mileage. 
• Engine cleanliness: High-quality detergents in synthetic oils help prevent the build-up of sludge and deposits, keeping the engine cleaner over time.
• High-temperature stability: Synthetic oils maintain stability at high temperatures, preventing oxidation and ensuring consistent performance in demanding conditions.

Common myths about synthetic oils

• Synthetic oils cause leaks: This is a misconception. Synthetic oils are designed to be compatible with engine seals and gaskets, and they do not cause leaks. If a leak occurs after switching to synthetic oil, it likely existed previously but went unnoticed.
• Not suitable for older engines: While older engines were initially designed for conventional oils, many can benefit from the superior protection synthetic oils offer. Always check the vehicle’s manual for recommendations.
• No need to change oil: While synthetic oils generally have longer life spans, they still require regular changes. Extended drain intervals should be based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and driving conditions.

Best practices for using synthetic oils

• Consult your owner’s manual and follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations regarding oil type, viscosity, and change intervals.
• Select the appropriate viscosity and performance grade of synthetic oil according to your vehicle’s specifications.
• Adjust your oil change frequency based on driving conditions. Severe conditions, such as towing or frequent stop-and-go traffic, may warrant more frequent changes.
• Opt for reputable synthetic oil brands with certifications.
• Regular oil analysis can provide insights into the condition of your engine and the oil. This proactive approach helps identify potential issues before they become major problems.
• Monitor your oil levels to ensure they remain within the recommended range. Low oil levels can lead to poor lubrication and increased engine wear.

Take the next step

If you’re ready to see the benefits of synthetic oils, talk to our experts. We’ll customise a solution that will meet your engine needs. We stock a large range of Kendall, Petronas, Shell and Red Line products so you can choose from the best.