Synthetic oil is a type of engine oil that is made from chemically modified petroleum components and other materials. It has many advantages over conventional oil, such as better performance, longer lifespan, and more protection for your engine. However, how often should you change synthetic oil? And how does it compare to conventional oil change intervals?
Synthetic Oil Change Intervals
Synthetic oil change intervals depend on the manufacturer’s recommendations, the age of your vehicle, your driving habits, and the type of synthetic oil you use. Generally, synthetic oil can last longer than conventional oil and requires less frequent changes. Synthetic oil change intervals can range from 7,500 to 15,000 miles, but some vehicles may have different intervals.
Factors Affecting Synthetic Oil Change Intervals
One factor that affects synthetic oil change intervals is the age of your vehicle. Older vehicles may need more frequent oil changes than newer ones, as they may have more wear and tear, leaks, or sludge buildup. Another factor is your driving habits. Driving habits, such as frequent short trips, stop-and-go traffic, towing, or racing, can put more stress on your engine and oil, requiring more frequent oil changes.
Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil Change Intervals
Synthetic oil has many advantages over conventional oil. It can resist thermal breakdown and maintain its viscosity and lubricity under extreme temperatures and pressures, ensuring consistent and optimal protection for your engine. It can resist oxidation and prevent the formation of deposits, sludge, and varnish, keeping your engine clean and efficient. It can contain fewer impurities and contaminants, reducing the risk of corrosion and damage to your engine’s components.
However, synthetic oil also has some disadvantages. It is more expensive than conventional oil, and some vehicles may not be compatible with it. It is important to check your owner’s manual or consult a mechanic before switching to synthetic oil.
Synthetic Oil Change Cost
Synthetic oil change cost is typically higher than conventional oil change cost, as synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional oil. The average synthetic oil change cost in the US is around $70, while the average conventional oil change cost is around $40. However, the synthetic oil change cost can vary depending on the type and brand of synthetic oil, the size and type of your engine, the location and reputation of the service provider, and the frequency and quality of the service.
Signs You Need to Change Your Synthetic Oil
Some signs that you need to change your synthetic oil are the oil level is low, the oil color is dark or dirty, the oil smell is bad or burnt, the oil pressure or oil light is on, and the engine noise or performance is poor.
How to Choose the Right Synthetic Oil for Your Vehicle
To choose the right synthetic oil for your vehicle, you should consider the viscosity grade, the API service category, and the ILSAC or ACEA specification. The viscosity grade is a measure of how thick or thin the oil is at different temperatures. It is usually expressed as a number followed by a letter, such as 5W-30 or 10W-40. The lower the number, the thinner the oil, and the easier it flows. The letter indicates the oil’s performance in cold (W for winter) or hot (no letter) conditions.
The API service category is a classification of the oil’s performance and quality standards, set by the American Petroleum Institute. It is usually expressed as a letter followed by a number, such as SN or SP. The letter indicates the type of engine the oil is designed for, such as S for gasoline or C for diesel. The number indicates the level of protection the oil provides against wear, deposits, and emissions.
The ILSAC or ACEA specification is a certification of the oil’s performance and quality standards, set by the International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee or the European Automobile Manufacturers Association. It is usually expressed as a series of letters and numbers, such as GF-6 or A5/B5. The letters and numbers indicate the type of engine and the level of fuel economy, emission control, and durability the oil provides.
How to Change Synthetic Oil Yourself
Changing synthetic oil yourself can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to maintain your vehicle. However, it can also be a messy and challenging task, especially if you are not familiar with the process. Here are some steps and tips on how to change synthetic oil yourself:
- Gather the necessary tools and materials, such as a wrench, a drain pan, a funnel, a new oil filter, a new oil plug gasket, and the right amount and type of synthetic oil for your vehicle.
- Warm up your engine by running it for a few minutes to make the oil easier to drain and remove any contaminants.
- Drain the old oil by locating the oil drain plug under your vehicle and using the wrench to loosen and remove it, allowing the oil to drain into the drain pan.
- Replace the oil filter by locating the old filter and using the wrench to loosen and remove it, then wiping off any dirt or oil from the filter housing and screwing on the new filter by hand.
- Add the new oil by locating the oil filler cap under your hood and using the funnel to pour in the new oil.
- Check for leaks and dispose of the old oil properly by taking it to a recycling center or a service station.
Synthetic Oil Change Maintenance Schedule
By following a synthetic oil change maintenance schedule, you can keep your engine clean and efficient, protect your engine from wear and tear, improve your fuel economy, and extend your engine life. Some benefits of synthetic oil include better fuel economy, longer engine life, fewer oil changes, and improved engine performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, synthetic oil change intervals depend on several factors, such as the manufacturer’s recommendations, the age of your vehicle, your driving habits, and the type of synthetic oil you use. Synthetic oil has many advantages over conventional oil, such as better performance, longer lifespan, and more protection for your engine. However, it also has some disadvantages, such as higher costs and compatibility issues. By following a synthetic oil change maintenance schedule, you can enjoy the benefits of synthetic oil and keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently.
