Synthetic Oil vs. Regular Oil: What’s the Difference?

In addition to our inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles, at Twin Lakes Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram we offer a full service center so you can keep your Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or RAM in top condition on the Lafayette roads! One of the most essential parts of your car’s regularly-scheduled maintenance is an oil change, and your car will either take conventional oil (also called regular oil) or synthetic oil. You might have heard these terms before but don’t know exactly how they differ. Our service team is here to help! We’ve got everything you need to know about synthetic vs. regular oil in the guide below. 

What is Regular Oil?

First, when comparing synthetic vs. regular oil, it’s essential to understand each option. Regular oil, or conventional oil, is the type of oil that’s been used in cars ever since their invention. It’s petroleum-based, meaning it’s distilled from crude oil that’s mined directly from the ground. Regular oil is designed to lubricate the internal combustion engine, reduce wear and tear, and protect the engine from overheating and damaging your vehicle on the Logansport roads. 

What is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil is also petroleum-based, but it’s been chemically treated and developed in intense processes to provide enhanced lubrication properties. Synthetic oil is more stable than conventional oil, it oxidizes less easily, and it’s better at retaining protective properties. Here are some other key benefits:

• Synthetic oil is less viscous at lower temperatures
• It offers enhanced engine cleaning properties
• It’s better at protecting critical turbocharger parts if you have a turbocharged engine

Full Synthetic Oil vs. Synthetic Blend

You might have also come across the terms “full synthetic oil” or “synthetic blend.” These are subcategories within the larger realm of synthetic oil, providing you with even more options for your engine oil. So, what’s the difference between full synthetic oil vs. a synthetic blend? It’s relatively self-explanatory: a synthetic blend is made up of part synthetic oil and part conventional oil. Since full synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional oil, a synthetic blend is a bit more affordable while still providing you with the benefits of synthetic oil. 

Note: Be aware that some vehicles require synthetic oil, including certain Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and RAM vehicles. Your owner’s manual will give you more information, or you can contact our service center and we can help you out when comparing full synthetic oil vs. synthetic blends.

Schedule an Oil Change with Twin Lakes Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Today!

Now that you’ve compared synthetic oil vs. regular oil, you’re prepared to keep your vehicle running smoothly. If it’s time for your regularly-scheduled oil change at Twin Lakes Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, you can schedule an appointment right from our website! We’ll take care of everything and get you back on the Winamac roads in no time. If you’re interested in saving on your appointment, be sure to keep an eye on our service specials, which we update all the time!