What is the Difference Between Full Synthetic Oil and Mineral Oil?
2 Answers
The differences between full synthetic oil and mineral oil are as follows: 1. Synthetic oil has a wider temperature range for use, a longer service life, and higher costs. 2. In the same working environment, synthetic oil can achieve engine protection with a lower viscosity. Information about full synthetic oil and mineral oil is as follows: 1. Synthetic oil is chemically synthesized oil, which is artificially manufactured. During the production process, various natural substances are chemically decomposed and then synthesized with other substances to finally produce synthetic oil. 2. Mineral oil is extracted from crude oil. When gasoline, kerosene, diesel, and heavy oil are distilled from crude oil, the remaining elements are used to refine mineral oil, which is the main component of some engine oils, gear oils, etc. (commonly referred to as crude oil).
I drive an older car and have been using mineral oil year-round. Mineral oil is directly refined from petroleum, affordable (usually under 100 yuan), but needs replacement every 5,000-6,000 kilometers. Fully synthetic oil is laboratory-engineered with more uniform molecular structures, costing about twice as much but lasting over 10,000 kilometers. In winter, mineral oil makes cold starts feel 'labored'—especially in subzero northern temperatures where the engine cranks for several seconds before running smoothly. Synthetic oil flows better at low temperatures, providing instant lubrication at startup. For older cars, mineral oil is worry-free, but for new vehicles or frequent highway driving, full synthetic is recommended—it offers more comprehensive long-term engine protection and slightly better fuel efficiency.
