Tips
Choosing the right engine oil is key to maintaining engine health and performance. One of the first questions car owners often ask is: should I use synthetic or mineral oil? Let’s take a closer look at the differences, benefits, and how to choose what’s right for your vehicle.
What Is Mineral Engine Oil?
Mineral oil is the most basic form of engine lubricant. It is refined from crude petroleum and contains natural hydrocarbons.
Mineral oil features:
- Lower cost
- Suitable for older engine models
- Provides basic protection and lubrication
- Requires more frequent oil changes
Because it flows less efficiently, mineral oil can lead to higher fuel consumption and slightly reduced engine performance. However, if your car manufacturer recommends it, mineral oil can still be a sufficient and reliable option.
What Is Synthetic Engine Oil?
Synthetic oil is produced using more advanced chemical processing, resulting in a cleaner and more stable lubricant. It can be derived from:
- Chemically modified crude oil
- Selected synthetic base molecules
Key characteristics of synthetic oil:
- Fewer impurities
- Chemically engineered for better performance
- Contains advanced additives that protect against wear, oxidation, and deposits
Synthetic oils are ideal for modern engines, especially those that require high performance or operate under more demanding conditions (e.g. turbocharged engines or frequent stop-and-go driving).
Benefits of Synthetic Engine Oil
Compared to mineral oil, synthetic oil offers significant advantages:
- Better flow at low temperatures
- Stable viscosity at high engine temperatures
- Fewer oil changes needed
- Less sludge and deposit formation
- Reduced wear on engine parts
- Improved fuel economy Longer engine life
The only downside? Higher price—but many see it as a worthwhile investment in long-term performance.
✅ Always consult your vehicle’s manual before choosing engine oil. Not all engines are designed to run on synthetic oils, especially older models.