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Synthetic Oil vs Conventional Oil

Cadillac Oil Change

You want what's best for your car to keep it running smoothly and last for many years. But what type of oil is best? Cadillac of Jackson in Madison county is here to help compare synthetic oil vs regular oil to spot the differences and explain which is best for your Cadillac. That way, you can spend more time cruising and far less time researching how to care for your car. 

Synthetic Oil vs Regular Oil

Oil is used as a lubricant so your car's engine runs smoothly and efficiently. The type of oil you use can greatly affect how it operates. Regular oil is refined from crude oil that's extracted straight from the ground. Its viscosity index (the oil's ability to flow at different temperatures) isn't as reliable as synthetic oil because it's composed of molecules of various sizes. 

Synthetic oil, as the name suggests, is man-made. The molecules in synthetic oil are the same size, making it more efficient at a wide range of temperatures and much safer for your car's engine when temperatures are high.

When comparing synthetic oil vs regular oil, the viscosity index is worth noting. Although both types of oil contain additives that can improve functionality and protect your car's engine, synthetic oil is simply designed to do it better. You can also purchase oil that's blended with a mix of regular and synthetic oil.

Synthetic Oil: Better Mileage Limits 

One of the biggest perks of using synthetic oil is that it doesn't need to be changed as frequently as conventional oil. Longer oil change intervals will depend on the brand of oil you use and your driving conditions and style. Regular oil should typically be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Synthetic oil, on average, can be changed every 7,500 to 20,000 miles or after one year (whichever comes first). 

Although synthetic oil change intervals are generally much longer than general oil change intervals, it's always best to follow the instructions in the owner's manual for your specific Cadillac model. This is especially important while your vehicle is under warranty.

What if My Cadillac Doesn't Need Synthetic Oil?

That's okay. It's pretty easy to switch to synthetic oil—even if you've been using regular oil for years. In most cases, you don't even need to flush the engine. If, on the other hand, your car has high mileage or hasn't been properly maintained, you may want to stick with shorter intervals for a while. This gives your engine a chance to be fully cleaned out as you start using synthetic oil. 

Stick to the 3,000 to 5,000-mile oil change interval rule for a few cycles to remove any sludge or deposit buildups and to keep things running smoothly. After that, you can successfully use synthetic oil in your car's engine to keep things lubricated and working efficiently, and you won't need to change the oil as frequently as before.

When Would I Consider Non-Synthetic Oil for My Cadillac?

Most car manufacturers today recommend the use of synthetic oil. Because of its ability to work across a wide range of temperatures and driving conditions, synthetic oil has become the go-to for vehicles across the board. 

That said, synthetic oil may not be the best choice for cars that have more than 75,000 miles. In these cases, it's best to stick with traditional oil, and it's best to continue to change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. That way, you can rest assured that your engine is being cleaned properly and remains lubricated every time you drive.

Servicing For Cadillacs in Mississippi 

If you're not sure whether synthetic oil vs regular oil is right for your car, contact us at Cadillac of Jackson. Our team of experts is happy to answer all your Cadillac questions so you can enjoy every minute of every ride. Our locally-owned business is committed to serving Cadillac owners throughout Madison County, and we're always here to listen to your questions and concerns. Give us a call today!

Image Source: Ensuper/Shutterstock

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