Oil change Tips: The Pros and Cons of Synthetic vs. Conventional Motor Oil

By: Cite Auto

If you’ve ever walked into a mechanic shop for an oil change, you’ve probably been asked:“Would you like synthetic or conventional oil?”

And then, if you’re like most drivers, you might pause and wonder — what’s really the difference? Is synthetic oil worth the extra cost, or is conventional oil perfectly fine for your car?

At Centre de Mécanique Cité Auto, we hear this question all the time. And it’s a great one — because choosing the right motor oil isn’t just about price. It’s about performance, longevity, and how you treat your vehicle.

So, in this detailed guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of synthetic vs. conventional motor oil, how each one affects your car’s engine, and when you should switch.

Let’s make your next oil change decision an easy one!

1. Understanding the Basics: What Motor Oil Actually Does

Before we dive into synthetic vs. conventional, it’s important to understand what engine oil really does. After all, it’s the lifeblood of your engine.

1.1 The Purpose of Motor Oil

Motor oil has several key jobs:

• Lubrication: It prevents friction between metal parts that move at high speeds.

• Cooling: It helps regulate engine temperature by carrying heat away from critical areas.

• Cleaning: Oil collects dirt, carbon, and metal particles to keep your engine clean.

• Protection: It creates a barrier against corrosion and wear.

Skipping or delaying an oil change allows sludge and buildup to form, which can shorten your engine’s life dramatically.

1.2 What’s the Difference Between Conventional and Synthetic Oil?

• Conventional oil comes from refined crude petroleum. It’s the “classic” oil that’s been used for decades.

• Synthetic oil, on the other hand, is chemically engineered in a lab. It’s more refined, with molecules designed to perform better under extreme conditions.

Both types start with a base oil, but synthetic oil undergoes a more complex process to remove impurities and enhance performance.

1.3 Why This Choice Matters for You

The oil you choose affects:

• Engine longevity

• Fuel efficiency

• Maintenance costs

• Cold-weather performance (a major factor in Montreal!)

That’s why mechanics always emphasize the importance of choosing the right one for your car, driving style, and climate.

2. The Case for Conventional Oil: Simplicity and Affordability

Conventional motor oil has been around since the invention of the automobile. And despite newer technologies, it’s still a solid choice for many vehicles and drivers.

2.1 The Benefits of Conventional Oil

Let’s start with what makes conventional oil appealing:

1. Affordable: It’s generally cheaper than synthetic oil — sometimes half the price.

2. Widely Available: Every mechanic and gas station carries it.

3. Works Fine for Older Engines: Many older vehicles were designed for conventional oil, and some still run best on it.

For example, if you drive an older model car with over 200,000 km and you change your oil regularly, conventional oil can still protect your engine effectively.

2.2 The Drawbacks of Conventional Oil

However, conventional oil does have limitations — especially for modern engines or extreme conditions.

• Breaks down faster: It can’t handle high heat or long intervals between oil changes.

• Leaves deposits: It may form sludge or carbon buildup over time.

• Poor performance in cold weather: It thickens when temperatures drop, which can make winter starts harder (a big deal in Montreal!).

In short, conventional oil is reliable but requires more frequent oil changes — typically every 5,000 km.

2.3 Who Should Use Conventional Oil?

Conventional oil may be best for:

• Older vehicles without turbocharged engines

• Drivers with short, local commutes

• Anyone on a tight budget who changes oil frequently

At Centre de Mécanique Cité Auto, we still recommend conventional oil for certain older engines — but only when it matches the manufacturer’s requirements.

3. The Synthetic Advantage: Engine Protection and Performance

Synthetic oil is often marketed as “the premium choice” — and with good reason. It’s the result of advanced engineering, designed to deliver top performance and protection in any condition.

3.1 The Benefits of Synthetic Oil

Here’s why more and more drivers are switching:

• Superior temperature resistance: Synthetic oil flows easily in freezing cold and resists breaking down under high heat.

• Cleaner engine: It contains fewer impurities, which means less sludge and residue.

• Longer oil change intervals: You can go 10,000–15,000 km between oil changes in some cases.

• Improved fuel economy: With smoother lubrication, the engine works less, saving fuel.

For Montreal drivers, the cold-weather advantage is particularly valuable — synthetic oil ensures your car starts easily on frigid mornings.

3.2 The Drawbacks of Synthetic Oil

Of course, no product is perfect. The main disadvantage of synthetic oil is cost.

• More expensive upfront: A synthetic oil change can cost 50–100% more than a conventional one.

• Unnecessary for some engines: Older or low-performance vehicles may not benefit enough to justify the higher price.

• Overuse risk: Some drivers push oil change intervals too far because synthetic oil lasts longer — but that can be risky if filters or seals aren’t designed for extended use.

3.3 Who Should Choose Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil is ideal for:

• Modern vehicles with high-performance or turbocharged engines

• Drivers who face harsh winters or hot summers

• People who want longer intervals between maintenance visits

• Anyone who wants to protect their engine long-term

At Cité Auto, we recommend synthetic oil for most newer vehicles — especially those driving year-round in Montreal’s unpredictable weather.

4. The Hybrid Approach: Understanding Synthetic Blends and Oil Change Tips

Can’t decide between the two? Good news — there’s a middle ground: synthetic blend oil.

4.1 What Is a Synthetic Blend?

A synthetic blend combines conventional and synthetic oils, giving you some of the benefits of synthetic oil without the full price tag.

Advantages include:

• Better protection at high temperatures than conventional oil.

• Improved flow in cold weather.

• Longer lifespan before the next oil change.

Think of it as the “best of both worlds.”

4.2 Choosing the Right Oil for Your Vehicle

The best way to choose between synthetic, conventional, or a blend is to consider three things:

1. Manufacturer recommendation — Always check your owner’s manual.

2. Your driving conditions — City traffic, highway trips, or harsh winters all affect your oil needs.

3. Your maintenance habits — If you regularly perform oil changes, conventional may suffice; if not, synthetic might be safer.

For example:

• City driving with frequent stop-and-go? Choose synthetic for better heat resistance.

• Occasional driving and short distances? Conventional or a blend may be fine.

At Centre de Mécanique Cité Auto, our mechanic repair experts can assess your driving habits and recommend the best oil for your vehicle.

4.3 Oil Change Best Practices

Regardless of which oil you choose, a few simple oil change tips apply to everyone:

• Check oil levels monthly. Top up if they’re low.

• Don’t skip oil filters. Always replace them with every oil change.

• Stick to your schedule. Regular maintenance keeps your engine clean and efficient.

• Watch for signs of trouble: Dark, gritty oil or unusual engine noises mean it’s time for service.

A proper oil change is more than just pouring new oil — it’s about ensuring your engine stays healthy, efficient, and reliable.

Conclusion: The Right Oil Keeps Your Engine (and Wallet) Happy

So, should you choose synthetic or conventional motor oil?

Here’s a quick recap:

• Conventional oil: cheaper, reliable for older cars, needs frequent changes.

• Synthetic oil: cleaner, lasts longer, ideal for modern engines and extreme weather.

• Blends: balanced option for performance and budget.

At Centre de Mécanique Cité Auto, our certified technicians help you choose the right oil for your car, driving habits, and Montreal’s ever-changing climate. Whether you’re due for a simple oil change or a full maintenance inspection, our goal is to keep your engine running like new — season after season.

Schedule your next oil change today, and drive with confidence knowing your car has the best protection possible.