Engine Oil: Synthetic Oil And Traditional Oil

1、 Core definitions and characteristics of two types of engine oils

The core function of engine oil is to lubricate, cool, and clean the internal components of the engine, and its performance differences stem from the material of the base oil. Traditional engine oil (mineral oil) is based on mineral oil extracted from petroleum, with a small amount of additives added to make it. Its composition contains many impurities and its molecular structure is irregular; Synthetic engine oil is made by chemical synthesis technology to produce base oil, or deeply refined with high-quality mineral oil, with uniform and pure molecular structure and more precise additive formula.

The advantage of traditional engine oil lies in its simple production process, low cost, and ability to meet the basic lubrication needs of ordinary engines; Synthetic engine oil has more stable chemical properties, stronger resistance to high and low temperatures, less impurities, and better cleanliness, which can reduce engine carbon deposits and sludge production.

2、 Comparison of Key Performance Differences

In terms of core performance, there is a significant gap between the two. In terms of high temperature stability, synthetic engine oil is not easily oxidized or deteriorated during high load operation of the engine (such as long-distance highways, climbing), and its service life can reach 8000-10000 kilometers. Some fully synthetic engine oils can even be extended to 15000 kilometers; Traditional engine oil is prone to decomposition at high temperatures, and the replacement cycle is usually only about 5000 kilometers.

In terms of low-temperature fluidity, synthetic engine oil can quickly flow in low-temperature environments during winter, shortening the engine's cold start wear time; Traditional engine oil is prone to solidification and thickening, and if lubrication is not timely during cold start, it may increase engine wear and tear in the long run. In addition, the lubricating film strength of synthetic engine oil is higher, which can better protect the precision components of turbocharged and high-speed engines, while the lubricating effect of traditional engine oil will significantly deteriorate under extreme working conditions.

3、 Adaptation scenarios and selection suggestions

The selection of engine oil should be based on the vehicle model, usage environment, and driving habits. Traditional engine oil is suitable for naturally aspirated engines with mature technology, economical household cars, or vehicles with less annual mileage mainly used for short distance urban travel, and can control maintenance costs; Synthetic engine oil is more suitable for turbocharged engines, high-performance sports cars, luxury car models, as well as vehicles that frequently travel long distances, start stop frequently, or are used in extreme temperature difference environments, providing more comprehensive protection and reducing long-term maintenance costs.

It should be noted that although synthetic engine oil is more expensive than traditional engine oil, its longer replacement cycle and better protection effect can offset the price difference in long-term use, especially for precision engines. Choosing synthetic engine oil can effectively extend the service life of the engine.