Synthetic vs Conventional Oil in Chantilly, VA

One of the primary questions we get in the Service Department of Honda of Chantilly has to do with oil. Specifically, our clients generally want to know what the difference is between synthetic and conventional variations. To keep our customers informed so that they’re making the best decisions when it comes to their rides, we’d like to take some time today to dive into the subject.

Synthetic

As synthetic options are relatively new to the scene, let’s start there. This type of oil is made from artificial chemical compounds with molecules that are uniform in shape and size. They can either be full synthetic or a mix of conventional oil and synthetic. While the former provides the best protection against degradation, the latter still has improved durability when compared to traditional oil. One of the benefits of going with synthetic liquid is that it allows you to drive more miles before requiring a replacement batch. However, this marked enhancement comes at a higher cost, so keep that in mind when selecting the oil for your car at our location.

Conventional

Conventional oil is a tried and true option that humans have been using for years. It’s been a go-to selection, as it is easily accessible and derived from crude oil. Because impurities aren’t removed, this type of liquid has a molecular structure that is more varied in size and can even leave deposits over long periods of time. However, one of the major advantages is the low price. This quality makes it an economical choice, so remember that when evaluating your options. Either way, most cars made in recent years can take both conventional and synthetic oil, so it’s likely that you can choose the type to account for your particular needs.

Which Type is Right for Me?

Now that you know a few of the key differences between synthetic and conventional oil, let’s talk about how you can figure out which one is right for you. For the most part, cars have the type you’re supposed to use written directly on the cap of the oil tank. On top of that, you can check the Owner’s Manual for the same information. You’ll also want to consider how often you drive. That’s because you’ll want to get an oil change once a year regardless to keep things running smoothly, and so a synthetic oil with a longer mileage timeline and higher price might not be beneficial for individuals who don’t drive that often since a conventional option is cheaper. However, if you want to be extra confident in the oil you select, our team is on hand to answer your questions.

Now that you know a bit more about synthetic vs conventional oil in Chantilly, VA, make an appointment with our team of experts at Honda of Chantilly as soon as you can. We’d be happy to swap your oil out in the near future.