Synthetic Oil vs. Conventional Oil

Should I Get Synthetic Oil With My Next Oil Change?

The service experts at Bridgewater Nissan are here to give you good advice to help keep your Nissan running smoothly mile after mile and year after year. One of the most common questions we get asked by our service customers concerns whether or not synthetic oil is better than conventional oil. There are several factors to consider when choosing which type of oil to use in your Nissan or other brand vehicle, so let's break it down and look at the advantages of one over the other.

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1. Viscosity

Viscosity is the measure of the thickness of oil. Synthetic oils are able to be manufactured at a lower viscosity than conventional oils. A lower viscosity oil flows faster through newer, higher revving engines, enhancing its lubricating properties and exposing the engine to less wear. Here in New Jersey, where we experience cold winters, synthetic oils can reach moving engine parts more quickly during cold starts, when major wearing of uncoated parts takes place.

2. Purity

Conventional oils are a product of fossil fuels, extracted from deep beneath the ground and contain impurities that inhibit their lubricating properties and contribute to sludge buildup inside your engine. Even the extensive refining process that conventional oils go through do not completely remove all impurities. Because synthetic oils are manufactured, they contain no impurities and do not produce sludge buildup as they break down.

3. Longevity

Because they are natural products, they are prone to breaking down with regular use. The rigors that new engines put conventional oils through can cause them to lose their effectiveness quicker than what would occur in older, larger and lower revving engines. Synthetic oils also break down with use, but stand up much longer, allowing longer intervals between scheduled maintenance oil changes while minimizing wear and tear on your engine.

4. Long Term Cost

The one advantage that conventional oils have over synthetic oils is cost. Synthetic oil changes do cost more but let's look at that in the context of the advantages stated here on this page. Better viscosity, cleaner breakdown, and longer life all contribute to a healthier engine that gives you more return on your investment. The long term cost savings of using synthetic oil outweigh the short term cost savings of a cheaper oil change with an inferior product.

5. Nissan Recommended

The final point we'll make regarding the benefits of using synthetic oils in your car's engine is that it is the recommended lubricant stated in your Nissan's owners manual. Genuine Nissan Synthetic Oil is specifically engineered to your engine's needs and is the best product to use to get the highest performance and the longest life out of your Nissan.Bridgewater Nissan Service Center is proud to provide you with expert advice, quality service, and genuine Nissan products for your service and maintenance needs. Schedule your next synthetic oil change at Bridgewater and give your car the very best care available.