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Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil

Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil

Not all motor oil is the same. Whether you choose synthetic or conventional, the right oil makes all the difference in how your engine runs, performs, and lasts. At Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, we’ll help you understand the difference - and choose what’s best for your vehicle during your next oil change.

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Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil FAQs

What’s the difference between conventional and synthetic oil?

Should I use conventional or synthetic oil in my car?

When is synthetic oil the better choice?

Can I switch between synthetic and conventional oil?

Conventional oil is refined from natural crude oil and provides standard lubrication, but it contains more impurities and breaks down faster under stress. Synthetic oil, on the other hand, is chemically engineered for cleaner, longer-lasting protection. It resists breakdown, keeps your engine cleaner, and performs better in extreme temperatures.

It depends on your driving habits and environment. Synthetic oil is ideal for high-mileage, newer, or high-performance engines and for drivers who experience extreme heat, cold, or stop-and-go traffic. Conventional oil still works well for older cars or moderate driving conditions. Our certified technicians can review your manufacturer’s specs and recommend the right oil for your vehicle.

Synthetic oil outperforms conventional in a few key scenarios:

  • Older engines - Helps dissolve buildup and reduce wear.

  • Extreme temperatures - Flows smoothly in cold weather and resists breakdown in heat.

  • Frequent short trips - Protects even when your engine doesn’t fully warm up.

  • Heavy loads or towing - Keeps components lubricated under higher stress.

Yes - switching between the two types is completely safe and won’t damage your engine. Just avoid mixing them if you’re only topping off. When switching types, it’s best to have your oil completely drained and replaced by a professional technician.

Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil FAQs

What’s the difference between conventional and synthetic oil?

Conventional oil is refined from natural crude oil and provides standard lubrication, but it contains more impurities and breaks down faster under stress. Synthetic oil, on the other hand, is chemically engineered for cleaner, longer-lasting protection. It resists breakdown, keeps your engine cleaner, and performs better in extreme temperatures.

Should I use conventional or synthetic oil in my car?

It depends on your driving habits and environment. Synthetic oil is ideal for high-mileage, newer, or high-performance engines and for drivers who experience extreme heat, cold, or stop-and-go traffic. Conventional oil still works well for older cars or moderate driving conditions. Our certified technicians can review your manufacturer’s specs and recommend the right oil for your vehicle.

When is synthetic oil the better choice?

Synthetic oil outperforms conventional in a few key scenarios:

  • Older engines - Helps dissolve buildup and reduce wear.

  • Extreme temperatures - Flows smoothly in cold weather and resists breakdown in heat.

  • Frequent short trips - Protects even when your engine doesn’t fully warm up.

  • Heavy loads or towing - Keeps components lubricated under higher stress.

Can I switch between synthetic and conventional oil?

Yes - switching between the two types is completely safe and won’t damage your engine. Just avoid mixing them if you’re only topping off. When switching types, it’s best to have your oil completely drained and replaced by a professional technician.

Choosing the Right Oil for Your Engine

Motor oil lubricates, cools, and cleans your engine - protecting it from heat, friction, and wear. Over time, oil breaks down, losing its ability to protect, which is why regular oil changes are critical to keeping your vehicle running at its best.

At Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers, we use only premium Valvoline products and include a free 20-point courtesy inspection with every oil change, so you can stay on top of your maintenance without extra hassle.

How Often Should You Change Your Oil?

Even with synthetic oil, regular oil changes are still essential. We recommend every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, depending on your vehicle and driving conditions. Routine oil changes help maintain efficiency, prevent buildup, and extend your engine’s lifespan.

What Is Synthetic Blend Oil?

If you want the benefits of synthetic oil without the full cost, a synthetic blend — also called semi-synthetic oil - combines conventional and synthetic formulas. It provides better protection and performance than conventional oil alone while keeping maintenance affordable.

The Honest Truth

Conventional oil works, but synthetic oil takes protection to another level. It lasts longer, flows better, and shields your engine from the stress of daily driving. Whether your vehicle calls for full synthetic, synthetic blend, or conventional oil, our certified technicians will make sure your engine gets exactly what it needs - fast, clean, and done right the first time.

Stop by any Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers location for expert oil service and honest advice from the pros who know your car best.

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