What are the differences between semi-synthetic and mineral engine oils?
4 Answers
Mineral engine oil is directly refined from petroleum and then manufactured by adding additives, while semi-synthetic engine oil is extracted through hydrocracking technology based on mineral oil. The specific differences are as follows: Price difference: Mineral engine oil is cheaper than synthetic engine oil. Semi-synthetic engine oil is of a higher grade than mineral engine oil, and its purity is closer to that of fully synthetic engine oil. Performance difference: Mineral engine oil has poorer lubricity compared to synthetic engine oil. Engine noise: Engines using mineral engine oil produce weaker sounds compared to those using synthetic engine oil. Power output: In the initial stages of use, the difference between mineral engine oil and synthetic engine oil is minimal, but the advantages and disadvantages become more apparent over time.
As an average car owner with over a decade of driving experience, I've noticed significant differences between mineral oil and semi-synthetic oil after using both. Mineral oil is purely refined from crude oil, with lower costs, but I always feel it's like basic formula milk—lacking nutrients. It tends to degrade easily under high temperatures, requiring changes every 5,000 kilometers or three months, which is quite a hassle. Semi-synthetic oil, an upgraded blend of mineral and synthetic oil, offers mid-range pricing but far better engine protection. Its oil film remains stable, and cold starts are quieter. I can go up to 7,500 kilometers before changing it, making maintenance much easier. If you frequently drive on highways or in hot climates like I do, semi-synthetic oil better extends engine life and prevents carbon buildup. Overall, the choice depends on budget, but semi-synthetic offers better value for money.
I'm a mechanic who frequently helps customers with oil changes. Let me explain the difference between mineral oil and semi-synthetic oil. Mineral oil is simpler to refine, cheaper, and easier to purchase, making it suitable for older vehicles or cars used mainly for short trips. However, its viscosity varies significantly, causing difficulty in cold starts and faster wear. It's recommended to change it every 5,000 kilometers. Semi-synthetic oil contains half synthetic components, offering better temperature resistance and more consistent oil pressure, resulting in quieter engine operation. Since switching to it, I've noticed less wear on engine metal parts in customers' cars, and it generally lasts up to 7,500 kilometers. Semi-synthetic is more suitable for new cars, especially those with turbocharged engines, as it can enhance power output. The key is not to just go for the cheaper option and neglect protection. Long-term use of mineral oil may shorten engine life, so regular maintenance is essential.
I personally care about environmental protection and feel more responsible using semi-synthetic motor oil. Mineral oil is refined from petroleum, with high carbon emissions during the process, and its waste oil causes significant pollution while being slow to degrade. With average performance, engines consume more fuel, indirectly increasing emissions. Semi-synthetic oil is a blend of mineral and synthetic oils, improving fuel efficiency by about 10% per unit distance. This means fewer emissions, higher engine efficiency, and extending oil change intervals to over 7,000 kilometers, helping me reduce waste oil disposal frequency. The price difference between the two is small, but semi-synthetic oil offers greater sustainability advantages. Even regular cars benefit immediately from the switch, making it a small contribution to environmental friendliness.
