BY KEVIN SAWYER – One of the challenges of keeping your vehicle running properly is caring for the engine. The lifeblood of the engine, of course, is the type of oil you use. You need to pay attention to what the owner’s manual recommends but many remain confused regarding regular oil and the new synthetic oil brands. Which one will work best for your engine?
If your owner’s manual specifically states that your vehicle needs the synthetic oil, then you really need to be using the synthetic brands. The makers of the synthetic oil state that you will have stronger performance and your engine will last longer but is the synthetic oil really worth the extra cost you pay for it?
Even if your vehicle isn’t made for the synthetic oil, your choice can be a tough one. Generally, it will be your high performance vehicles that will require the synthetic oil but it also doesn’t brake down as fast as conventional motor oil. You can usually go between 7,000 to even 10,000 miles between oil changes with the synthetic oil. In addition, your engine will run smoother during the cold winters and your moving engine parts won’t break down for much longer periods of time.
In the end, it will be your call. Do your research and your due diligence. Consult with your mechanic and choose which motor oil will be most beneficial to your vehicle.
PHOTO CREDIT: Daniela Cuevas