- Conventional oil is derived from crude oil and is the cheapest and least complex of motor oil types. And because it has a simpler make up than other types of motor oil, conventional oil wears quicker than synthetics.
- Synthetic motor oils, derived from polyalphaolefins, are cleaner and more complex than conventional oil--giving them a higher price tag. Synthetic oils are more wear resistant and temperature tolerant than conventional oils.
- Blends of conventional and synthetic oil cut down the price of synthetics by mixing in conventional oil. Synthetic blends are basically conventional oils with additives to increase their temperature tolerance and help them burn cleaner.
- High mileage oils are synthetic oils with two special additives that are beneficial to cars with older engines. One additive keeps the oil from burning if it escapes the engine seal and another additive helps to seal slow leaks.
- Nanolubricants may be the future of synthetic oil additive. They employ the principles of nanotechnology to create tiny nanoparticles that are said to cut down on friction, stand up to enormous amounts of pressure and never wear down.
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