Unlike some years ago when synthetic lubricant was mostly used by high-performance vehicles, today, more and more mainstream vehicles utilize synthetics. Lubricant distributors are witnessing a sharp increase in the demand for synthetic lubricants. Given the numerous benefits of synthetics, it is no surprise that most car engines work better when using synthetic lubricants.
Why Use Synthetics?
Compared to the conventional oil that most car engines use, synthetics offer more advantages in terms of car performance and engine efficiency. Any lubricant oil distributor will tell you that pure synthetics have zero oil concentrate while semi-synthetic lubricants have less than 30% oil content. Resultantly, synthetics can resist oil breakdown, hence have a longer service life. Typically, synthetics lubricants last longer than conventional oil. For vehicles that utilize conventional oil, a change of oil is required after 3,000 – 7,500 miles. On the other hand, synthetics will go for much longer before a change of oil is required.
Why Do Synthetics Last Longer than Conventional Oil?
Synthetics are composed of high molecular weight materials that are made from the combination of low molecular-weight materials during a chemical reaction. Manufacturers of synthetic lubricants can control this chemical reaction to achieve uniformity and other targeted properties such as viscosity and oxidation stability. As a result, synthetics have a higher viscosity index, better lubricity, thermal stability, fire resistance, wide operation temperatures, oxidation stability, and a lower pour point.
These properties make synthetic lubricants more desirable compared to conventional oil. As a result, the benefits of using synthetics outweigh mineral-based lubricants by a long shot.
Here are the benefits of utilizing synthetic lubricants.
1. Saves More Energy
Given that synthetics have a higher resistance to oxidation, there is less oil thickening. The oxidation stability also reduces the formation of sludge and deposits that can increase engine drag. Additionally, the better lubricity of synthetics ensures that engines run optimally even when under heavy usage and high temperatures. In the long run, synthetic lubricants increase the engine’s efficiency. As such, less energy is required for the engine to run at its best and also during high-performance tasks.
2. Longer Engine Life
Synthetic lubricants contain only the purest oil molecules. Regular use of synthetics in a car ensures that there is little to no fluid friction. The internal parts of the engine experience little drag that, in turn, reduces friction and wear. As a result, the engine will have less operational problems, and this will boost the service life of the engine.
3. Works Under All Temperatures
Using conventional oil under high and extreme temperatures may accelerate the thermal breakdown of the mineral-based lubricants. Synthetics, on the other hand, have a high resistance to thermal breakdown even under high temperatures. Additionally, synthetics provide excellent lubrication under low temperatures and ensures that the engine starts up smoothly. This means that a car owner won’t have problems starting up the engine in the coldest seasons such as winter.
4. Keeps the Engine Clean
Given that synthetics have better resistance to oxidation, less harmful deposits are formed when the engine is running. As a result, the engine stays clean for a long time, even when a car is under heavy usage. This also reduces the frequency of changing the engine oil. Compared to conventional oil, synthetic lubricants keep a car’s engine cleaner because less harmful and toxic substances are produced during oxidation.
5. Long-Term Cost Benefits
When vehicles utilize synthetics from day one, the engine will last longer, and the car will perform better. This translates to less operational costs such as engine replacements and fewer fuel costs. Even more, the long-term value of the vehicle is boosted when the engine remains in prime condition.
Ultimately, synthetic lubricants add more value to a vehicle as compared to conventional oil. Today, more carmakers are encouraging their customers to utilize synthetics for their car engines so that they can tap into the many benefits of synthetic lubricants. However, you should only trust reputable lubricant distributors to supply you with the best synthetic lubricants.