Owners of high-performance automobiles are accustomed to using engine lubricants able to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations without losing effectiveness. These are not simply highly refined crude oil mixtures, but are made from other forms of hydrocarbon and organic compounds. Most drivers are aware that there is a difference between the two product types, but do not really know when or whether to buy synthetic oil.
In an effort to prevent shortages from crippling the war effort, German scientists were the first to formulate these products during World War II. As is often the case, human conflict drove technological advances, and in this instance proved useful long after the fighting ended. Synthesized products are made today in combinations ranging from completely man-made, to formulas of both natural and designer lubricants.
High demand has driven prices upward, but crude oil supplies are still comparatively abundant, especially with the introduction of new drilling technology. Improving upon nature can also be expensive, and a standard oil change using synthetics costs almost twice as much. In a time when most commuters are struggling to buy gasoline without breaking the bank, higher prices resonate with consumers.
Because these products are not made from crude oil from the ground, some people assume that they are also less harmful environmentally. In reality, the chemicals used to create these lubricants are not people-friendly, and their air-quality impact is also measurable. In spite the added manufacturing expense and virtually no real decrease in pollution, auto manufacturers increasingly recommend them as a better way to maintain a vehicle.
Advertisers initially tried to sell synthetics using extravagant and often-disputed claims. Even though that style of marketing proved counter-productive, the products available today are superior to petroleum derivatives in a number of ways. During the manufacturing process, the molecules that comprise certain synthetic hydrocarbons and organic compounds become roughly equal in size, greatly reducing friction.
Reduced engine friction can increase horsepower, while cutting down on normal internal wear and tear. Although statistically controversial, there are claims that overall mileage rates improve, and lower volatility reduces exhaust vapor emissions. Burn-off is reduced, and viscosity remains stable. During the icy blasts of winter synthetics still flow freely, and perform equally well under the extreme heat of high-performance stress.
The recommended mileage between oil changes is twice that of standard products, mainly because it has a greater resistance to the oxidation process and the type of thermal degradation that can turn engine lubricants into sludge. These products also often contain cleaning additives to help maintain viscosity, and resist damaging acids. Synthetics are necessary for engines with extremely tight tolerances.
Although it is always wise to follow manufacturer recommendations, using these products can be beneficial even when they are not actually required for operation. When natural and synthetic varieties are mixed, most mechanics say there will likely be no damage, but it is probably best to choose one or the other. During a era when hydrocarbon pollution is having notable worldwide effects, synthetics can be a better choice.
In an effort to prevent shortages from crippling the war effort, German scientists were the first to formulate these products during World War II. As is often the case, human conflict drove technological advances, and in this instance proved useful long after the fighting ended. Synthesized products are made today in combinations ranging from completely man-made, to formulas of both natural and designer lubricants.
High demand has driven prices upward, but crude oil supplies are still comparatively abundant, especially with the introduction of new drilling technology. Improving upon nature can also be expensive, and a standard oil change using synthetics costs almost twice as much. In a time when most commuters are struggling to buy gasoline without breaking the bank, higher prices resonate with consumers.
Because these products are not made from crude oil from the ground, some people assume that they are also less harmful environmentally. In reality, the chemicals used to create these lubricants are not people-friendly, and their air-quality impact is also measurable. In spite the added manufacturing expense and virtually no real decrease in pollution, auto manufacturers increasingly recommend them as a better way to maintain a vehicle.
Advertisers initially tried to sell synthetics using extravagant and often-disputed claims. Even though that style of marketing proved counter-productive, the products available today are superior to petroleum derivatives in a number of ways. During the manufacturing process, the molecules that comprise certain synthetic hydrocarbons and organic compounds become roughly equal in size, greatly reducing friction.
Reduced engine friction can increase horsepower, while cutting down on normal internal wear and tear. Although statistically controversial, there are claims that overall mileage rates improve, and lower volatility reduces exhaust vapor emissions. Burn-off is reduced, and viscosity remains stable. During the icy blasts of winter synthetics still flow freely, and perform equally well under the extreme heat of high-performance stress.
The recommended mileage between oil changes is twice that of standard products, mainly because it has a greater resistance to the oxidation process and the type of thermal degradation that can turn engine lubricants into sludge. These products also often contain cleaning additives to help maintain viscosity, and resist damaging acids. Synthetics are necessary for engines with extremely tight tolerances.
Although it is always wise to follow manufacturer recommendations, using these products can be beneficial even when they are not actually required for operation. When natural and synthetic varieties are mixed, most mechanics say there will likely be no damage, but it is probably best to choose one or the other. During a era when hydrocarbon pollution is having notable worldwide effects, synthetics can be a better choice.
