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Thursday, June 12, 2014

When To Buy Synthetic Oil For Your Car

By Sally Delacruz


High-performance vehicle owners are very familiar with the need for lubrication strong enough to resist temperature extremes without breaking down. Made primarily from organic compounds and hydrocarbon derivatives, these laboratory-designed engine oils differ radically from standard petroleum products. Although many drivers are aware that there is an alternative, most have questions regarding when or even whether to buy synthetic oil.

In an effort to prevent shortages from crippling the war effort, German scientists were the first to formulate these products during World War II. As is often the case, human conflict drove technological advances, and in this instance proved useful long after the fighting ended. Synthesized products are made today in combinations ranging from completely man-made, to formulas of both natural and designer lubricants.

High demand has driven prices upward, but crude oil supplies are still comparatively abundant, especially with the introduction of new drilling technology. Improving upon nature can also be expensive, and a standard oil change using synthetics costs almost twice as much. In a time when most commuters are struggling to buy gasoline without breaking the bank, higher prices resonate with consumers.

While it might also seem that a specifically designed product would eliminate many of the environmental issues associated with petroleum, that is not strictly the case. The chemicals in these fluids are not benign, and have a measurable air-quality impact. Yet even with their higher cost and environmental effect, they are being increasingly recommended by auto manufacturers as a better form of routine auto care.

Early advertising promotions tried to expand the market by pushing extravagant claims regarding additives and other properties. While that effort was largely unsuccessful, the fact remains that these products are actually truly superior in several ways. The manufacturing process re-arranges internal chemical structures, creating a substance with lubricating molecules that are equal in size compared to non-modified forms.

These artificial lubricants greatly reduce friction, which is an excellent way to increase overall horsepower while cutting down on general wear. More efficient operation can also decrease the volume of gasoline burned, while extending the useful life of the vehicle. Synthetics are able to flow more freely in the cold of winter, and react equally as well under extremely high temperatures and engine stress.

Artificial compounds have a greater resistance to oxidation and thermal degradation, both of which can transform clean oil into dark sludge. This makes the intervals between recommended changes about twice as long, compensating somewhat for a higher shelf-price. Special additives resist acidic erosion, and help maintain viscosity in nearly all situations, making them perfect for engines with tightly engineered tolerances.

Although it is always wise to follow manufacturer recommendations, using these products can be beneficial even when they are not actually required for operation. When natural and synthetic varieties are mixed, most mechanics say there will likely be no damage, but it is probably best to choose one or the other. During a era when hydrocarbon pollution is having notable worldwide effects, synthetics can be a better choice.




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