SYNTHETIC VS. CONVENTIONAL OIL: WHICH ONE?
At an oil change you are often asked whether you want conventional or synthetic. The honest answer starts in your owner's manual, not in the shop. Here is the difference and how to decide.
📞 Call and Tell Us What’s Going OnAAA says conventional oil is refined, petroleum-based oil that is typically more cost-effective, and synthetic is more extensively engineered for consistent performance. Your owner's manual or oil-fill cap tells you the viscosity and specification your vehicle needs, and some vehicles require synthetic only.
Both types lubricate your engine. What differs is how the oil is made and what your engine is designed for. The guidance below is from AAA. It is general information, not advice for a specific car.
THE DIFFERENCE IN PLAIN WORDS
| Conventional | Synthetic | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Refined, petroleum-based oil | More extensively engineered oil, refined for consistent performance |
| Cost | Typically the more cost-effective option | Usually costs more; ask the shop |
| Who needs it | Vehicles whose manual allows it | Required by some vehicles; follow the manual |
HOW TO DECIDE
- Start with the owner's manual or the oil-fill cap. AAA says that is where to find the correct viscosity (for example 5W-30) and specification for your vehicle.
- If your vehicle requires synthetic, do not use conventional. AAA says some vehicles need synthetic only.
- Do not choose a thicker or thinner oil on your own. AAA says drivers should not make personal decisions on viscosity.
- Switching is generally fine. AAA says you can generally change between conventional and synthetic without harming your vehicle, unless the vehicle requires synthetic.
- Synthetic does not mean longer gaps by itself. AAA says it is not advisable to deviate from the manufacturer's service recommendations.
AAA says high-mileage oil is generally recommended for vehicles that have been driven 75,000 miles or more. Ask about it if your car is in that range.
Lescaille Car Care offers both conventional and full synthetic oil changes in Clifton. Tell us the year, make and model and what your manual says, and we can go from there. For how often to change oil, read how often to change your oil, and see our oil change page.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
OIL CHANGE? TELL US YOUR CAR
Call with your year, make and model and ask about conventional or full synthetic
498 Lakeview Ave, Clifton NJ 07011 · Mon–Fri 8:30am–5:30pm · Sat 8:30am–4pm
Sources: AAA: What motor oil should I use for my car? (read October 24, 2026. General information, not a diagnosis.)
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