In summary, comparing the features of synthetic oils versus petroleum oils
is an exercise that all lubrication professionals enjoy, but what is the bottom
line for the consumer and what action should you take? Clearly, synthetics
win in head-to-head features and benefits and they also provide intangibles
such as insurance, but should every owner switch? The answer is “no.” If
you own an older vehicle with more than 100,000 miles, you should not
switch unless you have an experienced professional to guide you through the
process. If you have a vehicle with leaks that you cannot fix, then it makes no
sense to pour the higher priced synthetic oil on the ground. If for some
reason, your engine is consuming oil at an alarming rate, again, it is not cost-
effective to use synthetic oil. On the other hand, synthetic oils are superior in
performance; the right synthetic is more cost effective than petroleum so
there is little reason not to switch. The high temperatures (600°F) possible in
the turbocharger make good quality synthetic oils clearly the best choice; one
failed turbo buys a lot of synthetic oil. If you are towing or otherwise
involved in severe duty operations, then synthetics offers so many superior
benefits and enhanced protection, it is the only right choice. Using petroleum
rather than synthetic oil is an option analogous to using bias ply tires instead
of radial tires. Of course the bias ply tire can get you from point A to point B.
The difference is in the load-carrying capacities, heat range, traction,
handling, and tread life. For simple casual driving with no severe conditions
the bias ply tire is fine, but in the event of something outside normal
conditions, the radial is superior; it is simply a matter of the quality of each
tire’s construction.
The decision, whether to use synthetic oil or petroleum oil, is dependent on
your unique situation; each of us has his own set of circumstances to assess
in order to make a decision based on facts. Understanding the benefits and
limitations of engine oil will help you make an informed choice. Making
sense of the relationships between oil properties and how those properties
protect and preserve an engine is the only real way to analyze true cost
effectiveness. Sometimes the decision is obvious; severe duty situations call
for synthetic oils. Critical components subject to high temperatures like the
turbocharger are best protected by synthetics. I recommend synthetic engine
oils in order to provide the most cost effective method to achieve the best
lubrication possible for your engine.
Thanks Dan.
You can contact Dan Watson with any lubrication questions you have at