How To Know When To Buy Synthetic Oil

By Sally Delacruz


Owners of high-performance automobiles are accustomed to using engine lubricants able to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations without losing effectiveness. These are not simply highly refined crude oil mixtures, but are made from other forms of hydrocarbon and organic compounds. Most drivers are aware that there is a difference between the two product types, but do not really know when or whether to buy synthetic oil.

When the German war effort was in danger of losing its oil supplies during World War II, a substitute was hastily developed to keep the machines moving. Human conflicts often speed the development of technology, and these products are one example of an unintended but positive outcome. Over seventy years later the same basic manufacturing principles are used to make a variety of lubricants, from pure synthetics to blended products.

High demand has driven prices upward, but crude oil supplies are still comparatively abundant, especially with the introduction of new drilling technology. Improving upon nature can also be expensive, and a standard oil change using synthetics costs almost twice as much. In a time when most commuters are struggling to buy gasoline without breaking the bank, higher prices resonate with consumers.

While it might also seem that a specifically designed product would eliminate many of the environmental issues associated with petroleum, that is not strictly the case. The chemicals in these fluids are not benign, and have a measurable air-quality impact. Yet even with their higher cost and environmental effect, they are being increasingly recommended by auto manufacturers as a better form of routine auto care.

In the early days, advertising campaigns for these products stressed questionable claims regarding additives and performance. While that did little to curry public favor, the fact remains that the agencies were actually correct in their overall assessments. Because important internal atomic structures are modified during the manufacturing process, individual molecules become nearly equal in size, creating a superior lubricant.

Reduced engine friction can increase horsepower, while cutting down on normal internal wear and tear. Although statistically controversial, there are claims that overall mileage rates improve, and lower volatility reduces exhaust vapor emissions. Burn-off is reduced, and viscosity remains stable. During the icy blasts of winter synthetics still flow freely, and perform equally well under the extreme heat of high-performance stress.

Artificial compounds have a greater resistance to oxidation and thermal degradation, both of which can transform clean oil into dark sludge. This makes the intervals between recommended changes about twice as long, compensating somewhat for a higher shelf-price. Special additives resist acidic erosion, and help maintain viscosity in nearly all situations, making them perfect for engines with tightly engineered tolerances.

While it is important to follow car-maker recommendations, using these manufactured oil products can be advantageous even when not specifically required. Mixing the two varieties occasionally usually causes no damage, but it is wise to ask a mechanic which is best for a particular vehicle. A cleaner engine spews less exhaust, and using this product can be a healthier option until a time when hydrocarbons are no longer the fuel of choice.




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