Synthetic vs Semi-Synthetic vs Conventional Oil Indianapolis IN

You’re standing in front of the wall of oil options at your local auto parts store, trying to figure out which type to buy, so you can top off your car’s oil. There are a lot of options; the main differences being synthetic vs. semi-synthetic vs. conventional oil.

Which one should you buy, so you can get back on the roads of Indianapolis, Lawrence, and Speedway? Does it matter? Learn the differences among these various types of oil in this quick guide from your neighbors at Andy Mohr Nissan.

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What is the Difference Between Synthetic, Semi-Synthetic, and Conventional Oil?

Synthetic	Great for extreme temperatures Lasts the longest
Semi-Synthetic	Works well in low temperatures Resists oxidation
Conventional	Cheapest Least refined

Synthetic Oil

Synthetic oil is created in a lab for uniformity and high viscosity across a wide range of conditions, from subzero temperatures to summer’s heat. As a result, a car with synthetic oil will continue to provide peak performance whether you’re driving to work during a polar vortex or towing heavy loads down the highway.

A high level of refinement, plus high-performing additives, allows synthetic motor oil to resist breakdown and sludge. Therefore, it lasts longer than any other type of oil, saving you trips to the mechanic to get your oil changed.

Semi-Synthetic Oil

Also commonly called synthetic blends, semi-synthetic oil offers better protection than conventional oil, but at a lower cost than full synthetic. This makes it a great middle ground, since it provides some of the benefits of either type.

If you want something that works better in low temperatures and can resist oxidation, but don’t want to deal with the premium price tag of a synthetic oil change, consider a semi-synthetic oil. This type of motor oil is usually recommended for vans, trucks, and SUVs operating under moderate driving conditions.

Conventional Oil

Conventional oil is the cheapest option when it comes to keeping your engine lubricated. It’s generally recommended for simple, low-mileage engines and moderate driving styles. Conventional is also the least refined option, made from a base mineral oil with additives that help it last longer at high temperatures.

Can I Mix Different Types of Oil?

If your car uses conventional oil, you shouldn’t have a problem switching to a blend or full synthetic to reap the benefits that go along with these higher quality options. However, we don’t recommend switching the other way around. That is, if your owner’s manual calls for synthetic oil, you shouldn’t switch to semi-synthetic or conventional.

But what about mixing the different types of oil together? Unless your vehicle specifically calls for synthetic oil, there shouldn’t be any drawbacks to mixing conventional and synthetic oils together. That means that if your oil is running low and you accidentally bought the wrong type to top it off, there’s no need for concern.

However, keep in mind that adding any other type of oil to a full synthetic will decrease its performance, and you may need to get your oil changed sooner than you originally planned.

Schedule Your Next Oil Change

Now that you know the differences among synthetic vs. semi-synthetic vs. conventional oil, you’ll be prepared for the next time you schedule an oil change and your service technician asks what kind of oil you want.

If you’re due for an oil change in Indianapolis, Lawrence, or Speedway, IN, or simply have more questions about the various types of engine oil, contact the service department at Andy Mohr Nissan today.