Synthetic vs Conventional Oil Change
There are many different types of oil but most of them fall into different main types: synthetic vs. conventional oil change. These two main types of oil differ quite a bit when it comes to how often they’re changed and how much they cost.
So, when it comes to changing these two types of oil, drivers in the areas of Rockwall, Mesquite, and Garland might be wondering if the oil change process is any different. In this guide, we at Rockwall Ford will answer that question for you. Read ahead to learn more!
Synthetic Oil vs Conventional Oil: How Often
One of the biggest differences between synthetic oil and conventional oil is how often they need to be changed. Conventional oil, which is made of natural materials like petroleum, breaks down a bit quicker, which means it needs to
changed more often than synthetic oil.
Conventional oil typically needs to be changed every 5,000 to 6,000 miles, or about once every six months. Synthetic oil, which is made of man-made chemicals, can last much longer than that by design—it only needs to be changed every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, or about once a year.
Regardless of whether you use conventional or synthetic oil, though, there are several factors that can mess with these timelines. You may need more frequent oil changes if you…
- Drive in stop-and-go or city traffic
- Take your vehicle off-roading
- Drive frequently in extreme weather conditions
- Tow heavy trailer loads or lots of cargo
These types of driving conditions can affect how hard your oil has to work and wear it down faster than normal.
Synthetic Oil vs Conventional Oil: How Much
How much synthetic oil and conventional oil cost is another big difference between these two types of oil. The price tags on bottles of conventional oil are lower than the price tags you’ll see on synthetic oil.
However, since conventional oil generally needs to be changed twice as often, you’ll end up spending about the same amount on either type of oil. The main difference is whether you’re paying it all up front for synthetic oil or spreading it out with conventional oil.
Synthetic Oil vs Conventional Oil: How It’s Done
When it comes to changing these two types of oil, there isn’t much of a difference. The oil change process is generally the same in that the old oil is drained from the engine system. Then, the old oil is replaced with new oil that’s picked out specifically for your vehicle’s needs.
Ready to Schedule Your Next Oil Change?
We at Rockwall Ford are thrilled that you stopped by today to learn more about the differences between a synthetic oil change and a conventional oil change. We hope we’ll think of us the next time you’re in need of an oil change, whether it’s synthetic or conventional.
Think that time might be now? Drivers in the areas of Rockwall, Mesquite, and Garland can schedule a service appointment today by giving us a call at our on-site service center!