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5/9/2017
This post can help you understand the differences between certain motor oils so that you can make an informed decisions when it comes time for an oil change. If that time is now, get the best engine protection with AMSOIL's Signature Series 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil.

Information to Help You Choose the Perfect Motor Oil

If you're never sure what oil to choose when it comes time for an oil change, these tips can help you make a better informed decision.

Understand the Different Oil Types

This basic information can help you understand some of the differences that set certain oils apart.
  • Conventional oil. Conventional oils are widely consumed because they tend to be the most affordable on the market. However, their price also reflects their performance abilities. Generally, conventional oils will need to be changed more often than other oils in order to keep your engine protected. They do meet API requirements, but they don't do much beyond that in terms of additive packages.
  • Synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is a man-made oil that is carefully crafted to ensure it offers superior protection for your engine. It offers many benefits, including better performance in all temperatures, improved fuel economy, and are longer lasting. Although they cost a bit more than conventional oils, they can help you save money because they don't have to be changed as often. They also include better additive packages to reduce strain, minimize harmful deposits, and reduce friction.
  • Synthetic blend oil. A synthetic blend is what it sounds like, a blend of conventional and synthetic properties. They can be more affordable than full synthetic oils, but they also don't offer the same superior qualities of a full synthetic oil.
  • High mileage oil. High mileage oil is the result of longer lasting engines. Many vehicles are now made to last longer, but as their miles add up, their engines' needs grow. Leaking oil, sludge formation, and other issues are addressed by high mileage oils to keep these engines going for even longer. They offer seal conditioners to reduce leaks, anti wear properties to keep your engine healthy, and better friction protection to reduce strain. If you're in the market for a high mileage synthetic oil, AMSOIL's Premium Protection 10W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil is a great option.
If it's time for your next oil change, why not make it a synthetic oil change? For even more help finding the perfect oil for your vehicle, contact Syntex Lubricants at (512) 848- 8240. Be sure to check out AMSOIL's full range of synthetic oils before making your final choice.

Is Motor Oil for Diesel Engines Different?

In a word, yes. Diesel engines are built differently and work in their own way, so they need their own type of motor oil to stay healthy. If you drive a car powered by a diesel engine, you may need to change your oil more often because of the added pressure they endure. Because of this and the added soot and combustion byproducts, diesel oils also contain more of certain additives. Generally, they are also produced with higher viscosity indexes that are not suitable for gas engines. Due to these differences and others, it's best to not use diesel motor oils and those for gas engines interchangeably. If you're not sure how to tell the difference, learn how to read the API donut on your oil's label. Check out AMSOIL's full range of diesel oils to find the best one for your vehicle.

Viscosity and Additive Packages

Once you know what type of oil your car will get the most benefits from, there are a couple other factors to consider. First off, you may notice a couple different numbers on your oil's packaging. They may look something like 10W-30. These numbers indicate the oil's viscosity range, or how the oil thins and thickens in different temperatures. The first number represents viscosity at lower temperatures. The lower the number, the more it is able to hold onto its viscosity even when temperatures are freezing. The W next to the number stands for winter and not weight, which is what most people think it means. The second number is the oil's resistance to thinning in hot temperatures. The lower the number, the more resistant it is to thinning in scorching temperatures. The viscosity range that best suits your car will depend on the conditions it's used under and the manufacturer's recommendations. Another factor to consider is the additive package included in your oil. Additives are included in oil in order for them to perform some extra but very necessary tasks. Common additives include detergents, anti wear properties, and frictions modified. These can help reduce deposits on your engine, keep the metal surfaces protected, and reduce friction that can lead to higher operating temperatures and added strain. While additives are a great addition, they can also get to be too much. It's best to stick to what comes with your oil instead of adding in even more of these. Some additives in higher proportions can actually have negative effects on your engine, so avoid messing with these if you have minimal oil experience.

Get a Synthetic Oil Change in Austin

Find the best synthetic oil for your vehicle by contacting Syntex Lubricants at (512) 848- 8240. Their experts can help you make an informed decision that will keep your engine healthy for longer. Don't forget that you can also shop their full range of AMSOIL Oil products by visiting their online shop.