The debate between mineral-based and synthetic oils for engines has raged for decades. Both oil types have their pros and cons, so it is essential to break down synthetic vs. mineral oil before deciding on the best type for your fleet.
What Are Mineral-Based Oils?
Mineral-based oils originate from natural sources like crude oil found in the ground. Made of hydrocarbons that break down into smaller molecules when heated up, this oil moves through your engine parts while dissolving dirt and other debris.
Mineral Engine Oil Benefits
Benefits of mineral-based oils include:
- Environmental sustainability: This oil is better for the environment than synthetic engine oils, which are often made from petroleum and pose a detrimental environmental impact.
- Lower cost: Cheaper than synthetic engine oil, mineral oil will save money over time.
- Accessibility: Mineral engine oils are readily available at any automotive store in small quantities for those who do not require large amounts of the product at a time.
Mineral Oil Drawbacks
Even still, this option has a few drawbacks, such as:
- Flammability: Mineral engine oil leaks and improper storage can pose a fire risk.
- Slow mobility: Some note that mineral engine oils reduce their vehicle’s fuel economy and performance.
- Lack of corrosion protection: Mineral engine oil can clog up your engine. While especially true of older models, even newer vehicles can have trouble with mineral oil without proper maintenance.
What Are Synthetic Engine Oils?
Made of synthetic base stocks derived from petroleum and other organic sources, synthetic motor oil has properties superior to conventional engine oils. Often, suppliers blend these base stocks with additives that provide the required performance characteristics.
Synthetic Oil Benefits
This oil variety boasts advantages such as:
- Enhanced service life span: Synthetic motor oil can improve your engine’s service life, meaning you will need to make fewer changes to the oil and filter.
- High viscosity: This oil stays in liquid form at higher temperatures, making it better at lubricating parts and preventing wear.
- Superior mileage: Engineered for performance, synthetic motor oil provides more power and mileage than conventional oils.
Synthetic Engine Oil Drawbacks
When comparing mineral vs. synthetic oil, potential disadvantages of synthetic include:
- Cost: Synthetic motor oil’s price varies depending on the brand and type, but it typically costs two to four times more than conventional motor oil.
- Usage limitations: Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual before using synthetic motor oil, as not all trucks can use it. This engine oil type is also not recommended for high-mileage vehicles.
Contact SC Fuels to Order Oils and Lubricants
When you need to get your hands on the best-quality engine oils and lubricants, turn to SC Fuels. Our family-owned business has serviced the community since 1930, and we pride ourselves on offering a single-choice provider experience. Contact us today!
