When you get an oil change, you’re often asked: conventional, blend, or full synthetic? The price difference is real, so it’s fair to wonder if synthetic is worth it. Here’s what you need to know.
The three types of oil
- Conventional oil is refined from crude oil. It does the job in many older, simpler engines, but it breaks down faster.
- Synthetic blend mixes conventional and synthetic oil. It gives some of the benefits of synthetic at a lower price.
- Full synthetic oil is made to be more pure and uniform. It protects better in extreme heat and cold and lasts longer between changes.
Start with your owner’s manual
This is the most important rule. Many newer cars require full synthetic oil, often in thin grades like 0W-20 or 0W-16. That’s especially true for turbocharged engines, many hybrids, and most European cars. Using the wrong oil can hurt engine protection and, in some cases, cause problems with a warranty claim.
If your manual says synthetic, use synthetic. If it allows conventional, you have a choice.
Why synthetic helps in Ontario
- Cold starts: on a -20°C morning in Waterloo, synthetic oil flows to engine parts faster. Most engine wear happens in the first seconds after a cold start.
- Short trips: quick drives around town never let the engine fully warm up. Synthetic oil handles this better.
- Stop-and-go and towing: synthetic resists breaking down under heat and heavy loads.
- Cleaner engine: it leaves fewer deposits and sludge over time.
When conventional still makes sense
If you have an older car whose manual calls for conventional oil, you mostly drive longer distances in mild weather, and you change your oil on schedule, conventional can be fine. A blend is a good middle option if you want a bit more protection without paying for full synthetic.
Common myths
- “Once you switch to synthetic, you can’t go back.” False. You can switch between oil types, as long as you use the grade your manual allows.
- “Synthetic causes leaks in older engines.” Not true for modern oils. An old engine that leaks was likely going to leak anyway.
- “Synthetic means I can skip oil changes.” It lasts longer, but you still need to follow the schedule. Read how often you really need an oil change.
Oil change in Waterloo
Not sure what your car needs? We’ll look up the right oil for your engine. President Tire & Wheels is at 632 Colby Drive, Waterloo, serving Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge. See our oil change page or call (226) 698-1667.
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