Knowing the differences between the various motor oils on the market can help you determine the best oil for your car, truck, or utility vehicle. This being said, your vehicle’s manufacturer may only recommend one type of oil for your engine. For example, if you drive a BMW, the manufacturer only wants synthetic motor oil put in the engine. As such, check your owner’s manual to see if there is a specific recommendation. If there isn’t, you can choose from any of the following oil types.
Conventional
You cannot go wrong with conventional motor oil as long as your engine does not require synthetic. Conventional oil has been around for well over 100 years, which makes it tried and true when it comes to protecting the engine. Conventional oil is extracted from the ground and is made from crude. Conventional oil has a 3,000-mile lifespan in the engine, so make sure to change it regularly. If you are faithful about getting the oil changed every 3,000 miles, you will extend the life of your engine.
High-Mileage
If you are considering high-mileage motor oil for your engine, take a look at your odometer. This oil is recommended at 75,000+ miles. This is conventional motor oil with additives to prevent the oil from creating gunk inside the older engine. The additives also help the engine when it comes to oil leaks. It helps to prevent them from happening. High-mileage oil also has a 3,000-mile lifespan and is a tiny bit costlier than conventional oil. It is worth it to protect your older engine, however.
Synthetic
The current rage in motor oil is synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is manmade from natural crude and other organic compounds. It contains additives that are designed to withstand both internal and external heat better, which is why it is recommended during the summer. Synthetic also withstands cold better, which means you can count on it in freezing temperatures. Synthetic oil has a 5,000-mile lifespan, so it lasts a bit longer between oil changes. This being said, it is also more expensive than conventional oil.
Synthetic Blend
Finally, you may want the reliability of conventional oil with the added benefits of synthetic. You may also want to save a bit of money by avoiding full synthetic motor oil. For you, there is a blend of the two oils that works well in all engines that do not require full synthetic. This oil is called synthetic blend.
Bring your vehicle to our shop if it is overdue for an oil change. We can help you choose the best motor oil for your automobile.