Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil

You’re probably already familiar with the fact that routine oil changes are important. But when you go for your next oil change in Rochester, which kind of oil should you use: synthetic or regular oil? That decision is based, most importantly, on what your owner’s manual says. To learn more about the difference between these two types of oil, trust the team at Rochester Volkswagen to keep you informed!

What is Regular (AKA Conventional) Oil?

Regular oil, sometimes also referred to as conventional oil, is a petroleum-based engine oil that is used to provide critical lubrication to the components of internal combustion engines. Distilled from crude mined oil, regular oil is later refined to produced a finished product that’s slick and usually lasts for up to 5,000-7,500 miles.

What is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil lasts just about as long as if not longer than conventional, aka regular, oil. It’s also a petroleum distillate, but it is chemically-engineered to offer extra lubrication properties. When you compare synthetic oil vs. regular oil, you’ll find that full synthetic oils generally:

•  Oxidize less easily than conventional oils
• Are better at retaining protective properties
• Are often more expensive than conventional oils
• Are less viscous at lower temperatures
• Offer enhanced engine cleaning properties
• Better protect critical turbocharger parts (when equipped)

How Do Full Synthetic vs. Synthetic Blends Differ?

Synthetic and conventional oils are generally referred to as two types of mineral oils. But there’s another comparison to be made here, and it’s between full synthetic oil vs. synthetic blend oil. What’s the difference? Generally, synthetic oil blends are what they sound like: synthetic oil mixed with conventional oil. Why choose synthetic blends, then? They’re cheaper than full synthetic oils, but also offer some of their enhanced properties compared to conventional oils. For vehicles that don’t require full synthetic oil, they can be a great middle-of-the-road option.

Note: some vehicles need full synthetic oil. Contact our service experts today to see if your vehicle is one of those vehicles!

Schedule an Oil Change in Rochester Now!

Whether your vehicle needs full synthetic oil or a synthetic blend, or you can comfortably use conventional oil, we invite you to schedule your next oil change appointment online now! Here at Rochester Volkswagen in Rochester, we strive to offer you a premier service experience, and our VW-trained technicians will surely know which type of oil your vehicle requires!