Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil: What's the Difference?

Oil changes are essential in maintaining your vehicle and protecting your engine. With so many types of motor oil to choose from, it can become challenging for consumers to know what type is best for their vehicles.

Fortunately, we’re here to help you understand the differences between the two most common types of motor oil: synthetic oil vs. conventional oil.

What Is Conventional Motor Oil?

We need to start with the basics to understand synthetic oil vs. conventional oil better. Conventional oil is 100% mineral oil obtained by refining crude oils through distilling.

The process results in a high-quality base motor oil. Conventional oil is popular among car owners because it’s generally easier to find and often more affordable than synthetic oil.

What Is Synthetic Motor Oil?

As the name suggests, synthetic is not 100% mineral oil. Instead, it’s created with different base oil components to produce stronger, better-performing motor oil for vehicles.

While synthetic oil changes are generally more expensive than those performed with conventional motor oil, choosing this option can reduce the frequency of oil changes and provide other appealing benefits, outlined below.

At Take 5, we also offer a range of deals and coupons on oil changes, no matter which oil type you prefer.

Are Synthetic Oil Changes Worth It?

So, are synthetic oil changes worth it? Let’s look at the benefits of synthetic oil vs. conventional oil changes.

While using conventional oil comes with some cost savings, synthetic oil offers the following benefits:

• Cleaner Engine: Conventional oil can pick up deposits in your engine and form sludge that can shorten its lifespan. Synthetic oil provides better protection by resisting sludge formation and removing existing sludge, resulting in a cleaner engine.
• Greater Engine Wear Protection: Motor oil provides a lubricated barrier between moving engine components. Synthetic oil can offer longer-lasting protection, potentially increasing your engine's lifespan.
• Better Flow at Lower Temperatures: If you live in a colder climate, synthetic oil can flow through your engine faster than conventional oil, providing enhanced protection right after you’ve started your car.
• Better Performance at Higher Temperatures: Synthetic oil has a better heat resistance and higher thermal stability, so it protects your vehicle when driving in higher temperatures.

Your Preferred Oil Change Made Easy at Take 5

No matter where you fall on the synthetic oil vs. conventional oil discussion, Take 5 provides more savings, faster oil change services, and incredible convenience. You don’t need an appointment to visit your local Take 5 drive-thru oil change location, making it easy to fit in service while on the go. Plus, you never have to leave your vehicle, and we offer other fast and affordable automotive services like wiper blades or air filter replacements.

The next time you need an oil change, head to your local Take 5 for service with conventional or synthetic motor oil. Find a Take 5 near you today!