Synthetic oil or mineral oil: which one is better?

Oil is an important component for the engine of motor vehicles, both cars and motorcycles. The function of the oil itself is to lubricate moving engine parts, such as pistons, valves, and shafts. Another oil function is also as a protector against rust, corrosion, and excessive heat. The oil also helps to clean up the remnants of scale that can result in engine damage.

In addition to knowing the schedule for how long it takes to change motor oil or car oil, as a vehicle owner you must also know the types of oil to know which oil is best used in your vehicle. There are several types of oils available in the market, including synthetic oils and mineral oils. Suzuki Indonesia has summarized the differences between these two types of oil, so you can determine which one is more suitable for use in your car?

Raw Materials

Car engine oils sold on the market have two main types, namely mineral oil and synthetic oil. Mineral oils are derived from crude petroleum, while synthetic oils are made from petroleum that has been treated with further processes. Some types of synthetic oils can also be made from other materials besides petroleum. In addition, there are also semi-synthetic oils made from a mixture of ingredients.

Content & its Formulas

In general, synthetic oils have a better formula than mineral oils. Synthetic oils are made with a lower SAE value, which makes them thinner than thinner. The specifics of this diluted oil are devoted to the construction of car engines that have very narrow gaps. In addition, synthetic oils also contain additives such as metal protection or detergents that are not found in mineral oils.

Technology Differences

The technology used in the manufacture of synthetic oils is also different from mineral oils. Synthetic oils are more suitable for use in modern vehicles with technologically advanced engines, because synthetic oils are considered in line with the development of engine technology. However, synthetic oils are not always suitable for use in vehicles with old-tech engines.

Guarantee & Warranty

In addition to the above factors, the difference between these two types of oil is also in the warranty. Synthetic oil manufacturers also provide a guaranteed protection and longer service life compared to mineral oils. This makes the price of synthetic oils slightly more expensive than mineral oils. However, the benefits derived from the use of synthetic oils may exceed the price paid.

From the differences in the two types of oil above, many believe that mineral oil is suitable for use in vehicles that carry old-tech engines, such as old cars or motorcycles, trucks, heavy equipment, and other vehicles whose engine construction is simple and does not require complex oil specifications.

 Meanwhile, synthetic oils are suitable for use in vehicles that carry the latest technological engines, such as sports cars and motorcycles, luxury cars, hybrid or electric cars, to cars that are often used for long trips that require optimal engine performance. 

But of course, this cannot necessarily be your benchmark when choosing the type of oil. You should still check the oil recommendations from the vehicle manufacturer to make sure the type of oil is suitable for your car, or you can also consult an expert technician from an official Suzuki Indonesia workshop.