Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil

The technicians at BMW of Tenafly service center take pride in our ability to educate car owners from Fort Lee to Closter as to the best ways to care for their vehicles. That’s why we share our wide range of automotive service and maintenance expertise.

If you’ve ever wondered “what’s the difference between synthetic vs. regular oil?”, then this blog is for you! Keep reading to find the answer, thencontact us or call (201) 643-7514 to schedule service or ask any questions you may have.

What Is Conventional (Regular) Oil?

Conventional oil, also called “regular” oil, comes from refined petroleum. For as long as there have been cars, conventional oil has been in their engines. Conventional oil is distilled from crude oil extracted from the ground. Motor oil lubricates vital internal parts to reduce engine wear due to high heat and friction between metal parts. It’s essential to prolong the life of your engine.

What Is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil also comes from petroleum-based substances just like conventional oil. However, it has even more refinement and additives that provide enhanced lubrication properties and improved stability.

Synthetic oils oxidize less easily than conventional oils. They’re also better at retaining the protective properties in the oil. They’re developed from petrochemicals using intense chemical processes ahead of delivering pinpointed properties that make them superior (and also more expensive) than conventional oils. However, in the long run of your vehicle ownership, synthetic oils are well worth the investment because they extend the life of your vehicle.

Synthetic oils also:

• Are less viscous at lower temperatures, allowing them to lubricate properly.
• Offer enhanced engine cleaning properties due to additives.
• Better protect critical turbocharger parts (when equipped) for more efficient engine performance.

How Do Fully Synthetic Oils vs. Synthetic Blends Differ?

In addition to synthetic oils and conventional oils, there are mid-grade offerings known as synthetic blends. As you no doubt have guessed, synthetic blends comprise part synthetic oil and part conventional oil. The goal of a synthetic blend is to reduce the cost of a fully synthetic oil while providing the enhanced properties above and beyond standard, conventional oil.

Note: Some vehicles require fully synthetic oil per the manufacturer. That might mean your BMW vehicle! Be sure to check your owner’s manual or contact our service experts if you’re wondering what kind of oil your vehicle requires.

Schedule an Oil Change in Tenafly Now!

Take better care of your vehicle and come in for an oil change today. Need to know how much it will cost? Check out our BMW Value Service to save money on your next maintenance, repair, or oil change!