What Are The Best Oil And Fuel Types For Your Car?

Many car owners find themselves wondering on a fairly regular basis if they should be filling their car with the more expensive types of oil and fuel. Understanding the difference between the types of fuel and oil, and how your car will respond to each type, can help you pick the best product for your vehicle.

Oil: Synthetic or Conventional?

Synthetic oil is oil that has been made through a chemical process, while conventional oil is made from natural crude oil that has been refined. Although both products are made to do the same thing (lubricate automobile engines), they behave differently. Synthetic oil has better performance overall when compared to conventional oil. Synthetic oil breaks down more slowly, can withstand intense heat better and overall lasts longer than mineral-based engine oil.

Using synthetic oil in your car means that the oil will continue to do its job for much longer than conventional engine oil, which means fewer oil changes and longer stretches of time between oil changes. The convenience of fewer oil changes is one of synthetic oil's greatest benefits.

Your mechanic will be able to tell you when you should return for an oil change based on the type of oil you put in your car. While conventional oil needs to be changed every 3,000-5,000 miles, some synthetic oils can go as much as 15,000 miles between oil changes.

Some cars require synthetic oil, though many do not. Check your owner's manual to find out for sure which type of oil is required by your car.

Gas: Regular, Unleaded or Premium?

At one time, premium gasoline was the preferred gasoline because it caused less "knock" in the engine. Knock refers to the loud noise and vibrations that occur when low-octane fuel explodes and drives down the piston before it finishes its cycle in the cylinder. Long ago, this "knock," was a common problem in engines fueled by low-octane gas. Knock contributed to the premature wear and tear of the engine. Over time, knock could even contribute to mechanical failure.

Modern engines are different. Modern engines are designed with a specific compression ratio that essentially forces the pistons to move properly in the cylinders without exploding prematurely. In other words, premium gas and regular unleaded gas behave exactly the same in many modern engines. Some cars with high-performance engines may benefit from the use of premium gasoline. The best type of gasoline for your vehicle should be stated in the owner's manual.

To learn more, contact a business like Small & Sons Oil Dist Co.

Share