Why You Should Switch to Synthetic Motor Oil – Jalopnik

When you enter an auto parts store, you’re engulfed by a wall of brightly colored bottles that promise “protection,” “performance,” and probably relief if you squint hard enough. Somewhere in that sea of ​​labels is synthetic oil – the one that makes drivers pause and wonder, “Is this overkill for my engine, or just what it wants?”

Synthetic oil is a laboratory-developed engine lubricant made up of chemically refined base oils instead of crude petroleum. That controlled chemistry gives it a tighter molecular structure, better resistance to heat and fewer impurities. Synthetic oil can be fully synthetic – made from pure man-made base oil with no petroleum mixed in – or a synthetic blend, which combines non-synthetic oil with synthetic base oil. Which engines benefit from synthetic oil? Pretty much everything from new turbocharged compacts to older engines that run hot or burn a little oil. Modern engines with tighter tolerances love synthetics, high-speed turbo engines basically require it, and even classic cars can benefit from synthetic oil. But to be safe, always consult your car’s owner’s manual for specific oil requirements.

As for why it’s better, synthetic oil can protect engines more effectively. For this purpose, according to the American Automobile Association“Synthetic oil performed on average almost 50% better than conventional oil.” Other reasons for switching include better cold weather performance, longer oil drain intervals and lower fuel consumption due to the use of synthetic oil. The fact is, synthetic oil is an upgrade: one that keeps your engine cleaner, cooler, smoother, and alive longer.

Compared to conventional oil, synthetics win in almost every performance category: racing, heavy duty, engine protection and longevity. Many modern engines are designed with synthetics in mind, and using conventional oil can shorten the life of turbochargers or variable valve timing systems.

Not all synthetic oils are brewed the same. PAOs (polyalphaolefins) are the strongest, remain stable despite extremes of heat and cold, and are widely used in modern, fully synthetic fabrics. PAGs (polyalkylene glycols) are commonly found in specialized automotive systems such as air conditioning compressors, thanks to their ability to demulsify fluids and absorb water. Then there are dibasic acid ester oils, which are also found in compressors, and polyol ester oils, which are often used in aerospace and racing applications because they resist oxidation like champs.

The disadvantage of synthetic oil? It’s pricey. But oil change intervals tend to be longer with synthetic oil: usually 4,500 to 15,000 miles, depending on manufacturer specifications. That means the higher upfront costs (latest 2025 prices range from $65 to $125 per service, depending on the shop and oil type) are often offset over time. Add in better protection and fewer repairs, and synthetic oil generally pays for itself.

Is synthetic “better” than anything else on the shelf? In most cases yes. Conventional works, but synthetic works longer and harder. High mileage oils help older engines, but many of them are still synthetic based anyway. If your engine can run synthetically, it should.