When it’s time for an oil change, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing between synthetic oil and conventional oil. If you’re like most drivers, you’re wondering: is synthetic oil really better, or is conventional oil still good enough? In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about synthetic vs. conventional oil — including performance, price, longevity, and what’s best for your engine.
What Is the Difference Between Synthetic and Conventional Oil?
Synthetic oil is chemically engineered for higher performance, while conventional oil is refined directly from crude oil. Both serve the same core function — lubricating and protecting your engine — but they do it in different ways.
| Feature | Synthetic Oil | Conventional Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Base Material | Man-made compounds | Refined crude oil |
| Viscosity Stability | Highly stable in extreme temperatures | Breaks down faster in heat/cold |
| Engine Cleanliness | Excellent detergent additives | More prone to sludge buildup |
| Oil Change Interval | 7,500 to 15,000 miles | 3,000 to 5,000 miles |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
Synthetic oil is more advanced, but that doesn’t mean conventional oil is obsolete — it depends on how you drive, what you drive, and how long you want your engine to last.
Advantages of Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is designed to offer superior protection and performance across a range of driving conditions. Here’s why it’s often recommended:
1. Better Temperature Performance
Synthetic oil flows better in cold weather and doesn’t break down as easily under high heat. This is critical for modern engines, especially those with turbochargers or tight tolerances.
2. Cleaner Engine Operation
With fewer impurities and better detergent packages, synthetic oils help reduce sludge, varnish, and harmful deposits. A cleaner engine means more efficient combustion and longer component life.
3. Longer Oil Change Intervals
Most synthetic oils last 7,500 to 15,000 miles, and some premium brands like AMSOIL or Mobil 1 can go up to 20,000 miles under optimal conditions. That means fewer oil changes per year and less maintenance hassle.
4. Better Wear Protection
Synthetic oils provide a stronger, more consistent film between moving parts, reducing metal-to-metal contact and preventing engine wear — especially during cold starts.
5. Fuel Efficiency
Some synthetic oils reduce friction so effectively that you may notice a slight boost in fuel economy, especially in smaller engines or hybrids.
Advantages of Conventional Oil
Conventional oil is still widely used and offers several benefits for the average driver:
1. Lower Cost
If you’re on a tight budget or driving an older vehicle that doesn’t need advanced protection, conventional oil is a more affordable option. An oil change with conventional oil usually costs 30–50% less than synthetic.
2. Sufficient for Basic Driving
For short trips, light commuting, or low-mileage vehicles, conventional oil is often adequate. It meets minimum industry standards and is approved by most automakers for older engines.
3. More Readily Available
Conventional oil is easy to find and stocked at virtually every oil change shop, parts store, and dealership — often in bulk and at discount pricing.
When to Use Synthetic Oil
Synthetic oil is the best choice in the following situations:
- You drive a newer car with a turbocharged or high-performance engine
- You live in extreme cold or heat
- You drive long distances or tow heavy loads
- You want fewer oil changes and longer engine life
Many modern vehicles now require synthetic oil by manufacturer specification. Always check your owner’s manual first.
When Is Conventional Oil Good Enough?
Conventional oil works just fine if you:
- Drive an older, non-performance vehicle
- Stick to short trips or city driving
- Change your oil every 3,000–5,000 miles
- Prefer to save money upfront
However, if you plan to keep your car long-term, the extra protection from synthetic oil may pay off down the road.
Synthetic Blend Oil: A Middle Ground
Synthetic blend oils combine the affordability of conventional oil with some benefits of synthetic oil. They typically cost less than full synthetics but offer better performance than standard oils. These blends are ideal for moderate driving and may extend oil change intervals slightly beyond conventional limits.
Cost Comparison: Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil
Here’s how the costs break down on average per oil change:
| Oil Type | Price Per Quart | Typical Oil Change Cost | Change Interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | $4 – $6 | $35 – $55 | 3,000 – 5,000 miles |
| Synthetic Blend | $6 – $8 | $45 – $65 | 5,000 – 7,500 miles |
| Full Synthetic | $8 – $12 | $75 – $110 | 7,500 – 15,000 miles |
Although synthetic oil costs more upfront, it can reduce your total maintenance costs over time due to fewer oil changes and longer engine life.
Don’t Overlook Battery Maintenance While You’re At It
While you’re investing in better oil, there’s one more area where you can improve your car’s longevity — your battery. Most drivers throw out old batteries too soon, spending $100+ unnecessarily.
The Battery Reconditioning Course shows you how to revive and reuse batteries you thought were dead.
- Restore old car, marine, motorcycle, and laptop batteries
- Save hundreds each year
- Help reduce waste and be more eco-friendly
Click here to access the Battery Reconditioning Course and take total control of your car’s performance and savings.
Conclusion: Which Oil Should You Use?
Choosing between synthetic and conventional oil depends on your driving habits, engine needs, and how long you plan to keep your vehicle. Synthetic oil offers better protection, longer intervals, and superior performance — especially for newer cars and harsh conditions. Conventional oil is a budget-friendly choice for older engines and light use, but comes with shorter intervals and reduced cleanliness.
For most modern vehicles, synthetic oil is a smart long-term investment. And don’t stop there — learn how to recondition your car battery with the Battery Reconditioning Course to unlock even more savings and reliability from your vehicle.