If you’ve ever been to an auto parts store or an auto service shop to get your oil changed, you may be asked, “what kind of engine oil do you need”. In most people’s minds, they think all motor oil is the same. However, motor oil comes in different brands, viscosities, and prices made for different engines. How do you know what kind of engine oil you need?
The answer that you are looking for is not hard to find. In fact, it is all laid out in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. In fact, you can also find additional information, such as how often to change your oil and how much oil you should add to your engine.
If you’re still wondering why there are different types of motor oil and the differences between each type, read on to learn more. We will discuss conventional oil, synthetic oil, synthetic blend, and high-mileage oil.
Conventional Oil
Conventional motor oil is the traditional or standard motor oil. It is natural and refined by a manufacturer. It is the cheapest type of oil, and it simply gets the job done. You can expect reasonable performance from this type of oil. In most cases, it will last you approximately 3,000 miles. If you want added protection, you may consider upgrading to a different type.
Synthetic Oil
Synthetic motor oil is different from conventional because it is entirely made in a factory or lab. As a result, it is more consistent and held to higher standards. Some people argue that it is better for protecting and lubricating engines today. However, synthetic oil costs more than conventional oil. The bright side is that its longevity can outweigh the cost – it can last 5,000-7,500 miles or more between each change.
Synthetic Blends
As the name suggests, synthetic blends are a hybrid between both oil types mentioned above. They provide more protection and longevity than conventional oil, but the cost is less than full synthetic motor oil.
High Mileage Oil
High-mileage oil is a subcategory of its own. When oil is labeled as high mileage, it is formulated to protect engine seals in older vehicles. You should use high-mileage oil if your vehicle has more than 75,000 miles on it.
If you need an oil change, we invite you to Bock Automotive for quality service. We can be your one-stop shop for all your automotive needs.