The Difference Between Semi and Fully-Synthetic Oil
Semi-synthetic or fully synthetic oil? - that is the question!
Both are types of lubricants used in engines. Why should you take the choice of engine oil for your car seriously and responsibly? Because it is crucial to ensure proper lubrication and protection. There are several important factors to consider such as the manufacturer’s recommendations, performance specifications, your typical driving environments, compatibility with your vehicle, and brands and quality.
Apart from this, it’s necessary to decide whether you need semi-synthetic or fully synthetic oils. To help you out, we’ve gathered a bit of basic information along with some recommendations so you can make the right decision easier.
Types of engine oil
It is important to have a good understanding of all the available options before making a choice. Let's take a moment to discuss the two types of oil.
Semi-synthetic oil, also referred to as synthetic blend oil consists of mixed mineral and synthetic base oils. Typically, the blend contains from 30% to 50% of synthetic oil, with the rest remaining for mineral oil. The oil’s performance is enhanced with a number of diverse additives.
The main advantages are cost-effectiveness and considerable versatility. Generally, this type is more affordable and suits a wider range of engines.
Fully synthetic oil is made completely from chemically engineered components and there’s not a single percent of mineral oil.
As compared to the previous type, fully synthetic lubricant comes at a higher price and has some compatibility concerns. However, it has its benefits too, e.g. better lubrication, strong temperature resistance, and extended oil change intervals.
Which is better - synthetic or semi-synthetic?
It’s all about your unique vehicle's requirements, operating conditions, and personal preferences.
In case you drive in extreme conditions and therefore require the highest level of protection and superior performance, you’re recommended to opt for fully synthetic oils.
For those with regular vehicles and limited budgets, semi-synthetic oil is the optimal solution. This is your perfect balance between quality and price.
Which should you choose?
As already stated, the factors you should consider when choosing engine oil are numerous. Unfortunately, many car owners do not pay enough attention to it so they later face serious problems. To avoid serious damage, you should ensure proper vehicle maintenance.
In this section, we will provide you with some more details and introduce an ultimate guide on how to select the best oil for your vehicle.
You should always consider the following:
- Car manufacturer and series
- Driving environments
- Required oil type
- Viscosity
- Oil standards
It will take you some time to research and analyze the available options and make the right decision eventually, but be sure, all efforts will pay off with longer engine life and more efficient operation.
Remember that your car demands proper care to serve long. Similar as you select high-quality and tasty food for yourself, you should pick up the oil that meets all your vehicle’s requirements.