Simple Answers from Larry Hatt's Auto Service Ltd: Synthetic Oil

Question:
What is synthetic oil and should I use it?

Larry Hatt's Auto Service Ltd Answer:
Regular oil, also called conventional oil, comes from dead dinosaurs. Conventional oil molecules are long hydrocarbon chains of various lengths. Imagine a bunch of pencils – some used and some brand new.

Synthetic oil is often more highly refined petroleum-based oil. The molecules are shorter and closer to the same length. Think a bunch of those little golf pencils.

Some synthetic oil is man-made. The molecules are rounder and much more uniform. Think marbles.

So you can see that as you progress from conventional oil to synthetic blends (a mixture of conventional and synthetic) to full synthetic oil, there will be less friction in your engine. Less friction means less heat – so better lubrication and protection against wear for Dartmouth drivers. Synthetic blends and full synthetics also cost more.

Synthetic oil is more resistant to thermal breakdown so less sludge (which can clog passages and really lead to pricey damage).

So what should Dartmouth drivers use? Well always use at least what your manufacturer recommends. So if your vehicle came from the factory with conventional oil you could choose any type. If it came with a synthetic blend – always use a synthetic blend or upgrade to full synthetic. If it came with full synthetic – that’s what you need to use.

Dartmouth drivers should always follow their manufacturer recommended oil change intervals. And if you want some extra engine protection, consider upgrading to a synthetic oil.

Stop by or give us a call.

Larry Hatt's Auto Service Ltd
909 Cole Harbour Rd
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia B2V 1E5
9024354288
larryhattsauto.ca

At Larry Hatt's Auto Service Ltd we install quality NAPA replacement parts.