Synthetic Motor Oil Myths
- MYTH: Synthetic motor oil is ‘fake’ oil.
- MYTH: Synthetic motor oil is bad for engine seals.
- MYTH: Synthetic oil causes cars to use more oil.
- MYTH: Synthetic oil creates more sludge.
- MYTH: Synthetic oils are too thin and can create blow-by and oil burn-off in older cars.
- MYTH: Synthetic oils are too thin, creating blow-by and oil burn-off in older cars. FACT: Just like conventional motor oil, synthetic oils have a specific viscosity grade. However, synthetic motor oil contains extra lubrication additives to make the oil stronger and provide higher heat dissipation.
Is there a downside to synthetic oil?
Probably the most glaring downside of synthetic oil is the cost. The price of synthetic oil is around two to four times the price of conventional oil. Synthetics may be more prone to additives precipitation during cold storage conditions.
Is it true once you use synthetic oil?
Myth: Once you switch to synthetic oil, you can never switch back. This is one of the most persistent myths about synthetic oil—and completely untrue. You can switch back and forth at any time. In fact, synthetic blends are simply a mixture of synthetic and conventional oils.
Can I go back to regular oil after using synthetic?
You can’t switch back to conventional oil: Once you switch to synthetic, you are not bound to it forever. You can switch back to conventional oil if you choose to do so and your vehicle manufacturer doesn’t recommend otherwise.
Is synthetic oil worse?
Because synthetic oil is better on your engine and has fewer impurities, it can go longer than conventional oils or synthetic blends. Turbo engines and older cars may still require oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Synthetic oil change intervals range 10,000-15,000 miles or once a year (whatever comes first).
How did Germany make synthetic oil?
During World War II (1939-1945), Germany used synthetic-oil manufacturing (German: Kohleverflüssigung) to produce substitute (Ersatz) oil products by using the Bergius process (from coal), the Fischer–Tropsch process (water gas), and other methods (Zeitz used the TTH and MTH processes).
How often should you change synthetic oil?
It’s recommended that you change synthetic oil every 7,500 – 15,000 miles, depending on the vehicle and the brand of synthetic oil used. To ensure you’re changing your oil at the proper intervals, always check your owners manual for more information.
Can I switch to synthetic oil after 100k miles?
Yes, you certainly can. Just use the right viscosity oil, or a better range multigrade. If your car was recommended for 10W-30, you can use 5W-30 or 0W-30 for better lubrication in cold climates.
Whats better conventional or synthetic oil?
Yes, synthetic oil is better for your engine than conventional oil. Although conventional oil (i.e., mineral oil) can provide adequate lubrication performance, it can’t compete with the overall engine performance and protection provided by synthetics.
How long can synthetic oil sit in an engine?
Most synthetic oils are rated to last between 10,000 to 15,000 miles, or six months to a year. Manufacturer recommended ratings are typically applied to ‘normal driving,’ and don’t reflect severe driving conditions that may require more frequent oil changes.
Can you mix high mileage synthetic oil with regular synthetic oil?
High-mileage motor oil. Mixing them will not improve the performance or efficiency of your engine in any way. Nor will mixing improve the oil performance, either. This is illustrated by these two equally important points: Adding synthetic oil to regular motor oil will not enhance the regular oil.
Is high mileage synthetic oil good?
High mileage oil If your vehicle is high-mileage and high performance, it’s suggested that you go with this type of synthetic oil. Older cars generally run well with conventional oil, unless your vehicle has more than 75,000 miles on it, in which case high-mileage oil is recommended.
Does synthetic oil turn black?
Engine oil also includes additives — chemical compounds designed to improve lubricant performance. Modern engines require these additives, found in both petroleum-based and synthetic oils. With them, your oil will darken, regardless of the number of heat cycles and abrasives present.
Can I use 10 year old engine oil?
Can you use expired motor oil? No. Oil shouldn’t be used after a few years; the exact period varying between 2 years (according to Total) up to 5 years (Mobil).
Benefits of Synthetic Motor Oil
In all engines, pollutants such as soot, carbon, and sulfuric and nitric acid are produced in equal amounts. Despite the fact that they are unavoidable consequences of the combustion process, each of these pollutants finds its way into your motor oil in variable amounts. The question is not whether you require a cleaning oil, but rather how successfully your motor oil cleans the dirt and deposits generated by your engine. A cleaner engine, to put it simply, is better protected, has greater quality performance, and operates more effectively than a filthy engine.
Are you interested in learning more about motor oil?
What makes synthetic oil better? The Proof is in the Pennzoil.
In view of the fact that synthetic motor oil derived from natural gas is somewhat more expensive than traditional motor oil, many people are curious about the advantages of using synthetic motor oil. It all boils down to science and invention in the final analysis. Base oil accounts for almost 80% of the total weight of a motor oil composition, with additives accounting for the remaining around 20%. Because they are chemically manufactured, the molecules in synthetic base oil have more consistent qualities, whereas the molecules present in traditional base oil vary in shape and contain varying quantities of impurities.
- Pennzoil Synthetic motor oil, which is superior to conventional motor oil in terms of performance, is made possible by the use of base oil derived from natural gas, which is purer than base oil derived from crude oil.
- (1) Developed in accordance with ILSAC GF-5, Sequence IIIG piston deposit test utilizing SAE 5W-30, as well as Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors requirements Pennzoil Platinum ®Euro products are exempt from this restriction.
- Pennzoil Platinum ®Euro products are exempt from this restriction.
- Based on mixed city/highway miles and a national average of 13,476 miles traveled per year in the United States, a clean engine gets 4.1 percent greater MPG than a filthy engine.
- Oil drain intervals should be followed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
4 Based on the results of the Sequence IVA wear test using SAE 5W-30. It is crystal clear in the natural gas drop portrayed in the top picture, indicating that it is made of base oil. Pennzoil’s characteristic amber hue is achieved by the use of our proprietary high-performance additives.
Five Common Myths About Engine Oil
In view of the fact that synthetic motor oil derived from natural gas is somewhat more expensive than traditional motor oil, many people are curious about the benefits of using synthetic motor oil. Ultimately, research and innovation are the key factors in this process. Formulations for motor oils are composed mostly of base oils, with additives accounting for the remaining almost 20%. The chemically designed molecules present in synthetic base oil have more consistent qualities, whereas the molecules found in conventional base oil vary in shape and impurity levels, and are thus less effective.
- Due to the fact that Pennzoil Synthetic motor oil is created from natural gas rather than crude oil, its performance is elevated to a higher degree than that of conventional motor oils.
- (1) Developed in accordance with ILSAC GF-5, Sequence IIIG piston deposit test using SAE 5W-30, as well as Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors requirements The term ‘Pennzoil Platinum®Euro’ does not apply to any goods manufactured by Pennzoil.
- The CAFE cycle was used to assess fuel efficiency under the FTP75 conditions.
- 2011, according to the Federal Highway Administration (fhwa.dot.gov).
- 4 A wear test using SAE 5W-30 was performed in Sequence IVA.
- Pennzoil’s characteristic amber hue comes from the use of our proprietary high-performance additives.
Eight Motor Oil Myths Debunked
When it comes to the upkeep and preservation of your automobile, motor oil is possibly the most important factor to consider. In order for the different elements of your engine to interact with the least amount of friction possible, oil must be used. This results in decreased wear, lower temperatures as well as an almost complete elimination of the possibility that your engine may seize. However, when it comes to oil, there are a variety of myths and misconceptions that have either crept into the general public’s consciousness or that used to be true but are no longer valid today.
It’s time to put the record straight, regardless of how they got there. This article will debunk eight of the most common motor oil misconceptions, as well as the facts behind each one.
1). Dark Oil Always Needs to Be Changed
False. A dark hue does not always indicate that your oil is unclean or that it is no longer performing its function. It is true that certain oils go black quite rapidly when the chemicals meant to clean your engine begin to operate. Gritty or grainy oil, on the other hand, is filthy and should be changed as soon as possible.
2). You Have to Get Your Oil Changed Every 3,000 Miles
While the 3,000-mile rule of thumb is a decent starting point, it is not always applicable. Some automobiles, when utilizing high-quality oil, may go as far as 8,000 to 10,000 miles or even more between oil changes. Check your owner’s handbook for the most up-to-date information on how frequently you should change yours.
3). Once You Go Synthetic, You Can’t Go Back
We’re not even sure where this one came from, and to be quite honest, it’s complete rubbish. Oil that has undergone additional chemical processing is known as synthetic oil, but the truth is that switching between synthetic and regular oils is rather common. Synthetic blend oils, on the other hand, are a mixture of traditional and synthetic oils that are rather common. It is acceptable to switch between the two.
4). Synthetics Cause Oil Leaks
For a brief period of time, this was true: when synthetic oils were initially introduced to consumers in the 1970s, they weren’t fully refined and might cause additional wear and tear to the seals and gaskets in your car’s engine. This is no longer the situation in today’s world. New formulations are intended to assist your engine by preserving these critical components, and as a result, most synthetic oils outperform conventional oils when it comes to safeguarding your engine’s internal components.
5). All Oil Additives Are the Same
This is completely false! In order to benefit your engine in a variety of ways, oil additives are particularly designed to do so. The use of some oil additives, such as those used in racing engines, is intended to maintain the oil working well under high pressure and heavy use. Many others are intended to extend the life of older, higher-mileage vehicles by protecting their seals. When an oil claims to be specially created for a certain purpose, there may be something to it.
6). Additives Improve Engine Performance
Make no mistake about it, engine additives may and do benefit your engine, but oil cannot be used to restore horsepower to your engine, nor can it be used to increase your gas mileage by using a particular formula. Any claims made about the performance of your vehicle should be treated with a grain of salt, as should any other statements.
7). I Changed My Filter Last Time; I Don’t Need To This Time
The oil filter is in charge of eliminating a large amount of the sludge, filth, and even grit that might collect in your engine’s combustion chamber. As with any other filter, the greater the amount of particles removed, the lower the filter’s performance. Oil filters are typically designed to last only one oil cycle, which means that you must replace them every time you change the oil in your vehicle.
8). Bulk Oil Is Lower Quality than Bottled Oil
When you purchase your oil from an auto parts store, you may choose between single quarts and five-quart canisters of the product. When you purchase it from an auto repair center, it is sourced from a large quantity of stock.
One common misconception is that bulk oil is of inferior quality than the oil purchased in bottles. This is completely false: if the oils are of the same brand and recipe, they will be identical in every way to one another. No matter what container it comes out of, it will be delicious.
About Christian Brothers Automotive
Christian Brothers Automotive delivers more than just dependable vehicle repair and maintenance services from ASE-Certified technicians; we also give a level of customer service that you won’t find anywhere else in the area. We have more than 190 sites in the United States, serving communities in Texas, Georgia, Colorado, West Chicago, Tennessee, North Carolina, and other states and provinces globally. Use our interactive map to discover a place that is close to your current location. Is it time to replace your oil?
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Synthetic Oil Myths
In recent years, synthetic motor oil has been a hot issue, and it is unlikely to fade away very soon – especially as many vehicle manufacturers are leaning toward using synthetic motor oil in their engines right out of the factory. Synthetic motor oil has a number of advantages over regular engine oil. Synthetic oil stories, like those of Bigfoot, the Loch Ness monster, and the requirement for an oil change every three thousand miles, persist despite the fact that they are false. Here are a couple of them urban legends.
- Some doubters consider synthetic oil to be ‘fake’ oil, meaning it is not derived from natural sources.
- Certainly, synthetic oil is produced artificially in a laboratory, but the word ‘synthetic’ refers to the manufacturing method rather than the actual material itself.
- Its consistency at the molecular level, lack of contaminants, and capacity to include high-quality additives are the characteristics that distinguish a synthetic from a natural product.
- Once you make the transition to synthetic motor oil, you will not be able to go back.
- Conventional motor oil is obtained and distilled straight from crude oil, as opposed to synthetic motor oil.
- Due to the fact that traditional oil does not last nearly as long or provide as much protection as synthetic oil, many auto owners (as well as vehicle manufacturers) have made the move to synthetic oil.
- Despite the fact that this misconception endures, it is just not true.
Synthetic blends and semi-synthetic oils are essentially a combination of synthetic and traditional oils, referred to as ‘synthetic blends.’ In other words, not only may you switch between the two at any moment (for what purpose is unclear), but you can also mix synthetic and traditional oil together without any problems.
- This recommendation is based on the fact that it will provide the best performance and protection available.
- You could, though, if you wanted to.
- Another common misconception is that synthetic oil would not provide the same level of protection for an older engine as it would for a fresh one.
- This narrative is based on the experiences of some car owners who used synthetic oil in their high-mileage vehicles and later discovered oil leaks.
An older car that has not been properly maintained may find synthetic motor oil to be difficult to work with due to its greater consistency and flowability – as well as the better quality detergents it contains that are meant to clean the inside of the engine – The use of inconsistent oil changes (mostly with conventional oil) can result in the formation of engine deposits and sludge – as well as the presence of acidic chemicals.
- Occasionally, old oil can cake up the cracks of seals in an engine, preventing the owner from seeing the problem.
- When synthetic cleaners are used, they have the ability to remove dirt off surfaces, which might result in leaks.
- It protects an engine with a lot of miles on it just as much as it would a fresh one.
- Even if your engine is in good working order, it may be advisable to have it fixed first before using synthetic oil.
- The use of synthetic oil will void the warranty on your new automobile.
- This is not correct.
- Alternatively, if you said that using conventional oil may cause your warranty to be voided, you would be a little closer to the reality.
- If your engine was installed with synthetic oil by the manufacturer, you must continue to use synthetic oil for the duration of the vehicle’s life.
(Find out the answers to frequently asked questions about Mobil 1 Synthetic Oil.) The engines of several automobile manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Honda, Toyota, Chevrolet, and others all need the use of synthetic oil (in certain cases, the use of synthetic oil is required for all of their engines).
- If your car was originally equipped with synthetic oil, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- This is a difficult concept to grasp.
- It lasts far longer than conventional oil – in certain cases, significantly longer.
- And you can do so as long as your vehicle is no longer protected by its original manufacturer’s guarantee.
- Detailed instructions can be found in your owner’s handbook or maintenance schedule.
- In some ‘exceptional’ or ‘difficult’ driving situations, shorter driving intervals may be required.
- However, while your vehicle is still under warranty, it is your obligation to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations as closely as possible.
- Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s handbook for information on the kind and weight of oil that should be used in your vehicle, as well as the recommended interval between oil changes for your vehicle.
Then you should speak with a rusty repair shop to see what they recommend in terms of switching to synthetic oil.
Synthetic Oil Facts and Myths
Synthetic oil, valvoline, mobil 1, royal purple, amzoil, penzoil, castrol, and quaker state are some of the brands that are available. The purpose of this essay is to discuss synthetic oil and the fallacies that surround its usage. It’s merely the first in a succession of events. If you would want to learn more about synthetic oil, please see the links provided below. Choosing the Most Appropriate Motor Oil The 3.5-liter engine of the Chrysler is plagued by oil sludge problems. High-mileage oil and oil filters are available.
What is the finest brand of cooking oil?
When should you replace your oil?
Myth1 You should flush the engine before you switch to syntheti c
Castrol, synthetic oil, mobil 1, royal purple, amzoil, penzoil, quaker state, mobil 1, mobil 1, mobil 1, mobil 1, mobil 1. It is the purpose of this essay to discuss synthetic oil and the myths that surround its application. That particular episode is only the first in a series of similar episodes. Please see the resources below if you would want to learn more about artificial oil. Motor oil selection is important. Sludge buildup in the oil of the Chrysler 3.5-liter engine. Oil and oil filters with high mileage are available.
What type of oil should you choose?
Oil filter that works the best is On a frequent basis, I’m asked questions like these concerning synthetic oils, so I decided to take the effort to distinguish reality from myth.
Myth2 Switching to synthetic will cause my engine to leak
This was true at the time when synthetic motor oils were initially introduced. Those lubricants were created specifically for racing. Because racing oils are changed after every race, they do not require seal conditioners, dispersants, or detergent additives to function properly. However, when individuals used such racing oils in their everyday drives, the lack of seal conditioners caused gaskets and seals to leak due to the lack of seal conditioners in the oil. Seal conditioners work by softening the seals and even causing them to bulge.
However, because synthetic oils flow more easily when they are cold, this merely served to exacerbate the situation.
When you combine harder seals with thinner oil, you get leaks, as you might expect.
Synthetic oils, on the other hand, include the same seal conditioners as traditional oils. In other words, if someone tells you that switching to synthetic fuel would cause your engine to leak, tell them that their knowledge is around 25 years out of date.
Myth3 You can go longer between oil changes if you switch to synthetic
Certainly, this was true at the time when synthetic motor oils were introduced. Racing-specific lubricants were used in certain vehicles. The fact that racing oils are changed after every race eliminates the need for seal conditioners, dispersants, or detergent additives. However, when individuals utilized those racing oils in their everyday drives, the lack of seal conditioners caused gaskets and seals to leak due to the lack of seal conditioners in the racing oils. When used on seals, seal conditioners not only soften them, but also cause them to expand.
However, because synthetic oils flow more easily when they are cold, this just served to exacerbate the situation more.
Guess what happens when you combine harder seals with thinner oil?
Synthetic oils, on the other hand, include the same seal conditioners as traditional oil.
Myth4 Once you switch to synthetic, you can’t go back to traditional oil
Really? You’re saying that the engine becomes accustomed to being fed synthetic oil and will have a fit if you try to give it normal oil instead? This rumor has absolutely no basis in fact. None. Nadda. Zip. It’s a fabrication, plain and simple. You are free to swap back and forth as often as you choose.
Myth5 Since synthetic oils flow better at cold temps, you can bump up to the next higher viscosity.
We are all aware that you need a heavier oil to safeguard your engine when operating at greater temperatures. When it comes to synthetic oil, if the manufacturer suggests 5W-30, should you bump it up to 10W-30? NOPE. In fact, synthetic 5W oil flows better than normal 5W oil, which is a good thing. However, it is not true that a 10W synthetic flows at the same rate as a 5W conventional. Furthermore, heavier oil can cause serious damage to variable valve timing devices, even leading in the illumination of the Check Engine light.
If they insist on you using 5W-30, don’t expect to be able to outwit them.
Rick Muscoplat posted a blog entry on
The Myth of Synthetic Oil in Cars
Dutch Silverstein contributed to this article. The 15th of November, 2016 Maintaining the appropriate lubrication of your engine is critical in order to avoid costly engine damage beneath the hood. Most drivers are aware of the significance of changing their oil on a regular basis, but a growing number of drivers are beginning to exclusively utilize synthetic oils. In addition to the numerous distinctions that make synthetic oils a more popular alternative, there are other misconceptions and tales that surround synthetic oils.
Importance of oil change
Over time, your engine oil continues to gather metal flakes, dirt, and other extra accumulation from frequent use in your car, which is why it is regarded critical to change the oil on a regular basis. It may appear that any old oil would suffice as long as it keeps the engine running smoothly, but, as with any other aspect of auto care, understanding what is going into your car is a crucial element of preventative maintenance and keeping your car in good working condition.
Keeping this in mind, below are some of the most prevalent fallacies about synthetic oils that you should be aware of before making a decision on whether or not you should avoid using any synthetic oils.
Let’s know some popular myths
Myth: Synthetic equals fake: While it’s logical that some might jump to the conclusion that synthetic and fake are interchangeable, synthetic motor oils are really manufactured from the same sorts of crude oils and natural gas as conventional motor oils. This is due to the fact that synthetic motor oil is made up of a higher quality and more thoroughly processed set of basic oils than conventional motor oil, as well as distinct additives that give additional protection against wear and strain on your engine.
- This is simply not true.
- A common misconception is that you can’t go back to traditional oil after using synthetic oil.
- Synthetic oils are essentially a blend of both conventional and synthetic oils in a single container.
- However, with ongoing breakthroughs in oil chemistry and technology, 3,000 mile oil changes are becoming more rarer.
- This is achievable because synthetic oil has the ability to give superior anti-wear protection, which will help to keep it cleaner for a longer period of time while also helping to enhance fuel efficiency.
- While this is absolutely inaccurate and has not been demonstrated in any way, synthetic oil will, in the majority of circumstances, improve engine protection in older cars in the same way that it does in modern engines.
- In addition to assisting with engine cleanliness and protection, synthetic oils have no effect on the engine’s drain levels.
- However, the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals are the only ones that should be followed.
The importance of researching and selecting a reputable brand cannot be overstated. Not all synthetic oils perform the same functions or have the same amount of impact on your vehicle’s performance as others.
If any doubt, check your car’s manual
Engine maintenance is the most crucial aspect of car ownership, and oil changes are an important element of keeping your engine in good condition. However, while there are many myths about synthetic oil and the negative effects it can have on your engine, it’s important to do your research before having any maintenance done on your vehicle. Synthetic oils can actually improve vehicle performance and increase the amount of time between oil changes. However, if you are still unsure about which type of motor oil is best for your vehicle, you should review your vehicle’s owners manualto determine whether the manufacturer suggests any particular brand or type.
10 Synthetic Oil Myths and Misconceptions Debunked
Regular oil changes are essential in keeping your engine in good working order; this is the most critical aspect of car ownership. While there are many fallacies about synthetic oil and the negative affects it may have on your engine, it’s crucial to complete your research before having any work done on your car. Synthetic oils can actually improve vehicle performance and increase the amount of time between oil changes. However, if you are still unsure about which sort of motor oil is ideal for your vehicle, you may review your vehicle’s owners manualto determine whether the manufacturer suggests any particular brand or type.
Author:Rob Dabney
Rob Dabney began a lifetime passion with motorbikes at the age of 15 when he acquired his first bike, a 1982 Honda MB5. Rob has been riding motorcycles ever since. His early twenties and thirties were spent competing in off-road desert events, including the Baja 250, 500, and 1000. He eventually became interested in dual sport and adventure riding as a result of his exploratory nature. To find out what’s around the next corner, Rob has embarked on a never-ending search that has led him on adventures in Mexico, North Africa, Europe, and all across the United States West.
10 Oil Change Myths (With The Truth)
If you have even a rudimentary understanding of automobiles, you have undoubtedly heard a variety of different statements concerning engine oils. In many cases, they may be described as epic fantasies, which is most likely the case. Myths are widely propagated, and it is difficult to trace the origins of a story back to its source. However, it is necessary to dispute the misconception with facts. In this post, we will attempt to debunk some of the most widespread misconceptions about engine oil that exist.
Common Oil Change Myths
You’ve undoubtedly heard that you should replace your engine oil every 3,000 miles in order to keep your engine in good working order. This is true. Even if this may be true in earlier automobile engines, it is absolutely not true in current automobile engines.
Modern automobile engines have scheduled oil changes every 10.000 to 18.000 miles, depending on the automobile model. Please refer to your vehicle’s service handbook for the particular schedule for your vehicle.
2. You need to change the oil if it’s black
The color of brand new engine oil is amber, as you are probably well aware of this fact. However, with continual usage, the oil will become polluted with dirt as it runs through the engine, resulting in the oil becoming black in color. The presence of black engine oil can be a symptom that the engine oil has been worn, however this is not always the case. If you have ever changed the engine oil in a diesel engine, you are probably aware that the engine oil will become pitch black within a couple of seconds of the engine being started with the fresh engine oil in it being used.
3. You cannot switch back after using synthetic oil
This is a common misconception that I hear a lot, and it is one that has to be busted. The truth is that switching between synthetic and traditional oils will have no negative impact on your engine’s performance whatsoever. The fact is that synthetic blends are a mixture of synthetic and traditional oils, so there is no need to be concerned about it.
4. Oil Additives Improve Engine Performance
Sadly, this is a common misconception that I hear a lot, and it is one that must be busted. Contrary to popular belief, switching between synthetic and traditional oils will have no negative impact on your engine’s performance. There is no reason to be concerned about synthetic blends because they are a combination of synthetic and traditional oils.
5. The “W” letter on engine oil packaging stands for weight
No idea where this myth originated, however it is untrue that the letter W represents for weight in the English language. The numbers represent the viscosity of the oil, while the W indicates that it is ‘Winter’ in season. This letter is used to indicate that the final two digits of the formula represent viscosity at cold temperatures. IN CONNECTION WITH: What Does SAE Stand for in Motor Oil?
6. Bulk Oil Is Lower Quality than Bottled Oil
In accordance with the belief, oil purchased in bulk is of inferior quality than oil purchased in a bottle. I believe this misconception originated because the cost of oil in bulk is far less expensive than the cost of oil in smaller quantities. This, however, is not the case. If you buy the same sort of oil in a barrel and a little bottle, the oil you get in a barrel and a tiny bottle is identical.
7. Synthetic oils can wear down seals in an engine and cause leaks
This is a myth that is not entirely correct. In contrast to conventional oil, synthetic oil has no detrimental effect on gaskets or seals. This myth is likely to have originated because synthetic oil may seep out through smaller holes than regular oil, which is why it has persisted. When using synthetic oil in your engine, it is critical to understand that if your engine was not leaking previously, the seals may begin to leak after you add synthetic oil to it.
8. Switching motor oil brands is harmful to my engine
This is not the case as long as the motor oil meets the same criteria as the engine oil that was previously used in your vehicle. Then you must realize that even though the engine oils are within the criteria necessary for your automobile model, there might be discrepancies in the quality of the oils. However, just changing the brand does not always imply that it will be detrimental to your engine’s performance.
9. All brands of motor oil basically are the same
The fallacy holds that all motor oil brands are the same simply because they all adhere to the same set of requirements.
This is not true. The fact is that they all utilize various base oils and different additions to the oil, therefore this is clearly not the case.
10. Thicker engine oil is the best
That is not correct. A layer of oil that is too thick might actually be damaging and result in worse lubrication than a layer of oil that is too thin. Check your car’s maintenance manual to find out exactly what type of oil you should use in your engine and how much of it. Depending on the engine architecture, certain automobiles demand thick oil, while others require thinner oil, for example.
Conclusion
Humans invent myths, yet many of them are devoid of any factual basis. The most alarming aspect of all of these facts is that individuals are really causing damage to their engines by believing these stories and applying them to their automobile engines. I hope you will put this information to good use the next time an elderly technician attempts to persuade you to believe some completely implausible facts regarding engine oil.
Synthetic Oil – Facts and Myths
In our company, we hear a lot of various perspectives on the advantages and disadvantages of synthetic oils. It is something that we personally utilize in our automobile and pickup truck. We’ve got some positive outcomes, but the debate continues to rage. A marketing manager for Amsoil wrote an essay on the matter, which is reproduced below in full. It is an unavoidable truth of life that people’s actions are impacted by their beliefs, whether or not they are correct. This is supported by a large number of historical examples.
- The train was deemed dangerous in the early nineteenth century because it was believed that if you traveled faster than 25 miles per hour, you would be going too quickly to breathe.
- Microwave ovens, autos, and aircraft have all faced opposition from groups that were as vocal.
- These individuals, on the other hand, were not naive.
- A number of times, they had simply made judgments before all of the data had been gathered together.
- Synthetic motor oils have been the subject of various fallacies held by the general public in our own time, and this continues now.
- Aspects of the debates that must be considered Synthetic motor oils are high-performance, long-lasting lubricants made from high-quality base stocks and specific purpose additives.
- Chemically synthesized oil base stocks are created from organic chemicals or synthetic hydrocarbons using a method that reorganizes the structure of the molecules such that they are all consistent in size, shape and weight, which is a phenomena that does not occur naturally in nature.
- When replying to the most common concerns voiced against synthetics, it is critical to first clarify the terms of the discussion in which we are participating.
(The first synthetic motor oil to be independently tested and certified to fulfill these industry-accepted requirements for defining engine oil qualities and performance characteristics was AMSOIL 100 percent Synthetic 10W-40 in 1972, which was the first such synthetic motor oil to be independently evaluated.) Many people who have questions regarding synthetics have been unable to find reliable answers because they did not know where to go.
Is it super oil or snake oil, and which is it?
Alternatively, the next individual claims that synthetics will cause your favorite automobile to die in an early grave if used.
For the purpose of putting the record right, we’ve put together a list of 10 of the most persistent fallacies concerning synthetic motor oils, and we’ll compare them to the realities.
Untrue.
It is necessary for both petroleum oils and synthetics to overcome challenges associated with the composition of seals.
In the end, it is the additive mix in the oil that is important.
Synthetics are too thin to remain in the engine, according to Myth2.
An oil must fulfill certain specifications in order to be classed in any SAE grade (10W-30, 10W-40, etc.).
For example, it doesn’t matter if the oil is 10W-40 petroleum or 10W-40 synthetic; the oil must retain a regulated viscosity between -25 degrees centigrade (-13 degrees Fahrenheit) and 100 degrees centigrade (212 degrees Fahrenheit) in order to be classified as a 10W-40.
Untrue.
Oil consumption will be reduced in such engines, rather than increased.
For the second time, it is because the sealing qualities between piston rings and cylinder walls are superior.
resistance of synthetics against reacting with oxygen at high temperatures.) Myth4: Synthetic lubricants are incompatible with petroleum-based fuels and oils.
The synthetic hydrocarbons, polyalphaolefins, diesters, and other materials that are used to make the basic stocks for high-quality name-brand synthetics are completely compatible with petroleum-based fuels and oils.
Fortunately, those days are no longer in existence!
It is normally preferable to use the same oil for topping off that you have been using in the engine throughout the previous operation.
Due to the fact that when oils with various ingredient packages are combined, the functions of additives blended for certain qualities might be negated, the reason for this is that It is preferable to use the same oil throughout the engine for best performance.
Untrue.
This is a testament to the value that synthetics provide in and of themselves.
Untrue.
It is possible for two things to occur in the presence of high temperatures.
As a result, sludge, gum, and varnish are formed as a result of the reaction of several complex compounds contained in naturally occurring petroleum base stocks with one another.
Among the other negative impacts of thickened oil include a limitation in the flow of oil into key places, increased wear, and a reduction in fuel efficiency.
The ingestion of dirt and the diluting effect of water can both contribute to the formation of sludge, which can occur in any type of oil, whether petroleum or synthetic.
No, synthetics cannot be utilized with catalytic converters or oxygen sensors, according to Myth 7.
When it comes to these components, there is no difference between synthetic and petroleum oils.
In reality, because synthetic fuels tend to run cleaner than conventional fuels, sensors and emission control systems operate more efficiently and with less pollution as a result of the cleaner running.
Untrue.
In reality, an increasing number of high-performance automobiles are arriving on showroom floors with synthetic engine oils pre-installed by the manufacturer.
When used in accordance with current API Service specifications, synthetic lubricants are perfectly suitable for use in any vehicle without jeopardizing the validity of a new vehicle warranty.
Myth9: Synthetics are indestructible.
Despite the fact that some experts believe that synthetic base stocks may be used indefinitely, it is generally known that the additives will eventually fail and the oil will need to be changed.
Additives, on the other hand, may be regenerated through the process of ‘topping off.’ Synthetic engine oils provide protection for an engine for periods of time that are significantly greater than those provided by non-synthetics.
Myth number ten: Synthetics are too costly.
Tests and real-world experience have demonstrated that synthetics may significantly increase drain intervals while also providing improved fuel efficiency, reducing engine wear, and enabling cars to run with higher levels of dependability.
All of these factors work together to make synthetic engine oils more cost-effective than regular non-synthetic lubricants.
In addition, as more advanced technology sets more demands on today’s motor oils, we will undoubtedly see an increase in the re-evaluation of oil purchasing patterns in this nation.
Like microwave ovens and electric lights, a highly technical innovation must frequently overcome a significant degree of public skepticism and consumer inertia before it is widely accepted by the general public.
In the world of automotive lubricants, the wave of the future has already begun.
As a freelance writer, he has written more than 200 essays on a wide range of relevant themes, all of which have been published.
We are not attempting to convert anyone to Amsoil, and we do not individually market the product. In my opinion, the essay included some good information to offer, and I believed that others might benefit from reading it.