Synthetic Oil vs. Regular Oil: What’s the Difference?

If you own a vehicle in Coventry, you might be wondering about the difference between synthetic and conventional oil. At the INFINITI of Warwick service center, we can help you compare synthetic oil vs. conventional oil to help you learn about proper care for your INFINITI vehicle. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out or visit us in Warwick.

What is Conventional (Regular) Oil?

What is oil and what is it used for? Motor oil is essentially distilled crude oil that helps keep your vehicle’s engine protected from high temperatures. Conventional oil, or “regular” oil, is a petroleum-based substance that has been used in internal combustion engines for many years to provide lubrication to internal parts and reduce engine wear. 

What is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil is petroleum-based like regular oil, but it provides enhanced lubrication properties and is more stable. This type of oil oxidizes less easily and is better at retaining protective properties. Synthetic oil is chemically developed from petrochemicals in an intense process that provides pinpointed properties that make this type of oil superior — and a bit more expensive than conventional oil. Synthetic oils also:

• Are less viscous at lower temperatures
• Offer enhanced engine cleaning properties
• Better protect critical turbocharger parts (when equipped)

How Do Full Synthetic vs. Synthetic Blends Differ?

Synthetic oils and conventional oils (sometimes called mineral oils) aside, there are also synthetic blends. As the name suggests, these are made up of part synthetic oil and part conventional oil — which helps to reduce the cost of choosing synthetic, while enhancing the properties of standard conventional oil.

Note: Some vehicles do require full synthetic oil, so you’ll want to make sure you double check with your vehicle’s owner’s manual or contact service professionals to make sure you’re using the right oil for your vehicle.

Schedule INFINITI Oil Change Service Near Providence 

Take great care of your vehicle when you schedule an oil change or other service with us at INFINITI of Warwick. Have questions about oil changes, tire rotations, and more? Contact us at or visit our certified INFINITI service center near Cranston today.