How To Know When To Buy Synthetic Oil

By Sally Delacruz


High-performance vehicle owners are very familiar with the need for lubrication strong enough to resist temperature extremes without breaking down. Made primarily from organic compounds and hydrocarbon derivatives, these laboratory-designed engine oils differ radically from standard petroleum products. Although many drivers are aware that there is an alternative, most have questions regarding when or even whether to buy synthetic oil.

First manufactured during the Second World War, it was developed in an effort to keep dwindling crude supplies from crippling the German war machine. Like many technological advances spurred by human conflict, these products have proven commercially useful long after the fighting ended. Today, they are manufactured in mixtures ranging from pure synthetic stock, to those combined with standard lubricants.

Even though supplies are still comparatively abundant, the price of crude is high due to increased world demand. As is often the case, improving on nature has proven somewhat expensive, and using synthetics in a routine oil change costs about twice as much. This added expense raises consumer eyebrows in a time when middle-class income is barely growing, and the price of gasoline rarely if ever decreases.

Because these products are not made from crude oil from the ground, some people assume that they are also less harmful environmentally. In reality, the chemicals used to create these lubricants are not people-friendly, and their air-quality impact is also measurable. In spite the added manufacturing expense and virtually no real decrease in pollution, auto manufacturers increasingly recommend them as a better way to maintain a vehicle.

Early advertising promotions tried to expand the market by pushing extravagant claims regarding additives and other properties. While that effort was largely unsuccessful, the fact remains that these products are actually truly superior in several ways. The manufacturing process re-arranges internal chemical structures, creating a substance with lubricating molecules that are equal in size compared to non-modified forms.

Being more homogeneous in size cuts friction, resulting in increased horsepower, while reducing overall wear and tear. Not only does this extend the life of a car or truck, but it also decreases the amount of gasoline a vehicle uses over the years. These lubricants flow normally during the coldest days of winter, while fully protecting the engine if the weather and hard driving create extended high temperatures.

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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