Is Synthetic Oil Worth It? Blend vs. Full Synthetic Explained For most newer vehicles, yes. Synthetic oil is worth it, and many newer engines call for it. If you commute on I-10 or sit in traffic on Airline Highway, your oil sees plenty of heat and stop-and-go driving. Here's what our Gonzales service team wants you to know. Synthetic blend vs. full synthetic A synthetic blend mixes synthetic and conventional base oils. It offers some of the benefits of full synthetic. Full synthetic generally holds up best under heat and hard driving. The right choice is whatever your owner's manual calls for. If your engine requires full synthetic, a blend may not meet the specification. Why synthetic oil is worth it It holds up in high heat. Synthetic oil resists breaking down when your engine runs hot, which matters in south Louisiana summers. It flows easily at startup. It helps protect engine parts in the first few seconds after you start the car. It helps most under hard use. Towing, stop-and-go traffic and turbocharged engines all make your oil work harder. What to do Check your owner's manual for the oil viscosity and specification your engine calls for. Follow your oil life monitor if your vehicle has one, and don't go past it. Ask our service team if you're not sure which oil is right for your vehicle. Frequently asked questions Is a synthetic blend good enough? It depends on your engine. If your owner's manual allows it, a blend that meets the listed specification is fine. If your manual calls for full synthetic, use full synthetic. Does stop-and-go traffic affect my oil? Yes. Heavy traffic, short trips and heat all make your oil work harder. Follow your oil life monitor, and check your manual for a severe-service schedule. Can I use synthetic oil in an older vehicle? In many cases, yes, as long as the oil meets the viscosity and specification in your owner's manual. If you're not sure, ask our service team. Can I switch between conventional and synthetic oil? Generally yes, as long as the oil meets your owner's manual specification. Mixing oils that meet the specification generally won't harm your engine, but you'll get the most benefit from the type your manual recommends. Time for an oil change? Ross Downing GMC Gonzales · 2522 S. Burnside Ave., Gonzales, LA 70737 Schedule Service Or call (225) 621-2164 This article is general information. Always follow your owner's manual and your technician's recommendations for your specific vehicle.
