Conventional and synthetic oils are the top two engine oil choices. Previous articles emphasized the significance of timely oil changes, the process, and oil grades. Nevertheless, we have not discussed transitioning from synthetic to conventional or debated the better oil type. Today, we’ll dive into this topic to help you determine whether it’s feasible to revert from a synthetic blend to a conventional oil.
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Why Can’t You Go Back to Regular Oil After Synthetic
Before answering why can’t you go back to regular oil after synthetic, I think it is imperative to know about the two oils in question here.
What Is Synthetic Oil?
Introduced in 1929, synthetic oil is an artificial lubricant created by manipulating petroleum molecules. It serves as a superior alternative to conventional mineral oils, especially in extreme temperatures. While synthetic oils are derived from distilled crude oil, their chemical modification and additives vary between brands.
These oils excel due to their low additives, high viscosity index, and outstanding engine protection, even in harsh conditions. They resist oxidation, maintain stability, and offer superior cold-cranking properties. Unlike Group I and Group II oils, synthetics lack unstable hydrocarbons, sulfur, and impurities, preventing harmful deposits.
To select the right synthetic oil, focus on viscosity grades indicated by the characters in an engine oil grade like 5W-40. The “W” number reflects cold weather flow, with lower numbers indicating better cold flow. The second number signifies flow at normal engine operating temperatures. Opt for high-viscosity synthetic oil to maximize engine protection. In summary, synthetic oil outperforms traditional options, offering longevity, reliability, and enhanced engine performance.
What Is Regular Oil?
Regular oil, also known as mineral or conventional oil, serves as a lubricant for automobiles and has been in use since 1908. It originates from natural petroleum and is now formulated with base oils like poly internal olefins (PIO), hydrocarbons, and polyalphaolefins (PAO), consisting of hydrogen and carbon compounds.
One key advantage of regular oil is its affordability. However, it requires frequent changes due to its shorter lifespan, which prevents engine component wear and tear. Regular oil breaks down more easily than synthetic oil, leading to sludge formation and deposits that hamper engine performance and longevity.
Regular oil’s viscosity varies with temperature, making it less suitable for extreme conditions. We recommend changing regular oil every three months or 3000 miles, whichever comes first.
When selecting regular oil, refer to your vehicle’s manual for the manufacturer’s viscosity grade recommendations. Regular monitoring of the oil level and condition is essential to ensure optimal engine performance.
Why can’t you go back to regular oil after synthetic?
Dispelling a common misconception, transitioning from synthetic to conventional oil is entirely feasible. Both synthetic and regular oils serve the same purpose: maintaining engine performance. The primary distinction lies in their quality, with synthetic oil outshining regular oil.
If you wonder about the implications of switching to regular oil, know that it mainly affects engine performance, favoring synthetic oil’s superior quality. This decline in performance can mislead some into believing it’s impossible to change back.
Experts advise sticking with synthetic oil due to its benefits in preserving engine health and longevity. However, should you decide to switch, a gradual approach is wise. Begin by switching from synthetic to semi-synthetic, then eventually transition to regular oil in a phased manner, including an oil filter change.
Vehicle model matters, as newer ones are more adaptable to oil type changes, while older models may face leakage issues. For a seamless transition, consult your vehicle manufacturer before making the switch.
What are different synthetic oil myths?
- Moving to synthetic oil may lead to leaks: Switching to synthetic oil does not typically result in leaks. While synthetic oil is thinner and can flow more easily, it won’t cause leaks. However, it might reveal existing issues if your engine has potential leak points.
- Reverting to conventional oil isn’t recommended: You’re not locked into synthetic oil forever once you make the switch. You can return to conventional oil as long as your vehicle manufacturer doesn’t advise otherwise. However, sticking with synthetic oil can contribute to better engine longevity.
- A new car should undergo a break-in period using conventional oil: Breaking in a new car with conventional oil isn’t a strict requirement. Most car manufacturers don’t specify this practice, and many new vehicles now come from the factory with synthetic oil.
What are the benefits of sticking to synthetic motor oil?
Switching from a synthetic blend to conventional oil might offer short-term savings, but it comes at the cost of foregoing long-term benefits. Synthetic oil is specially designed to provide superior engine wear protection. It excels in lubrication, ensuring smooth operation across a wide temperature range.
One key advantage is its stable viscosity in varying temperatures. Unlike conventional oils, synthetic oils maintain consistent lubrication, eliminating the need for excessively thick oil at cold starts, which can hinder performance. This consistency optimizes engine protection.
Additionally, using the right oil weight due to an improved viscosity index enhances fuel efficiency. Your engine won’t need to circulate overly heavy oil, resulting in better gas mileage compared to mineral oil users.
For vehicles with turbochargers, synthetic oil extends both engine and turbocharger lifespan. Turbochargers operate at their limits, and high-quality synthetic oil helps them endure for thousands of miles.
Furthermore, synthetic oil contains fewer impurities and more cleaning additives, reducing sludge buildup. It leads to a cleaner, healthier engine and maintains optimal power output. Remember, follow the manufacturer’s service intervals rather than relying on myths, as regular maintenance ensures the engine’s longevity.
FAQs:
If your vehicle’s engine has the capability, transitioning to synthetic oil proves to be a wise choice. Synthetic oil offers optimal performance across diverse temperature ranges and is particularly suitable for engines featuring direct injection, variable valve timing (VVT), and high-temperature components like turbochargers or superchargers.
Understanding the advantages of synthetic oil over conventional is just the beginning; the next move is to transition. Have a conversation with your mechanic and refer to your owner’s manual. Not all synthetic oils are equal, and not every engine is suitable for them. Ultimately, the optimal motor oil for your car is the one endorsed by your manufacturer.
Certainly, transitioning to full synthetic oil offers advantages for your high-mileage vehicle. Enhanced lubrication and superior cleaning promote optimal performance and extend your engine’s lifespan. Additionally, it aids in early detection and repair of minor leaks, preventing potential issues down the road.
Transitioning from synthetic to conventional oil doesn’t demand any specific requirements. Simply pour the mineral oil into your engine, just as you would in a typical oil change – no engine flushing or complex procedures are required. Just make sure to choose the appropriate oil viscosity for your engine and the prevailing weather conditions.
Wrapping up
Why can’t you go back to regular oil after synthetic? I’ve debunked the misconception – you can seamlessly transition between these oils without any harm to your engine. Yet, stick to the oil your manufacturer suggests. Synthetic oil outshines conventional oil with its low viscosity, superior lubrication, extended longevity, and various other advantages. It’s the go-to choice for luxury vehicles with heavy towing, high-performance engines, and spirited driving.
