Koons Ford Silver Spring

Jan 27, 2025

Motor oil is vital for the health of your car’s engine. The type and quality of oil you choose will impact the performance and longevity of your Ford. To help you understand the difference between conventional and synthetic motor oil, here’s a breakdown of both options plus guidance on how to decide what to use when next having an oil change service at your local Ford dealership.

What Does Motor Oil Do?

Motor oil serves a variety of functions. Primarily, it lubricates the many moving parts inside the engine, preventing a buildup of friction and heat that could rapidly lead to a breakdown. The oil also cleans metal fragments, dirt, and other debris away from the various internal components, sweeping contaminants along to the oil filter, which needs to be frequently replaced. Motor oil can also combat rust and corrosion.  

When To Use Synthetic Motor Oil

Synthetic oil is highly refined for fewer impurities and better, longer-lasting lubrication than conventional oil. During the refinement process, synthetic oil is also imbued with more additives, such as anti-oxidizers, cleansers, and anti-gumming agents. All in all, it’s vastly superior to conventional oil in every way, and typically enjoys more than double the lifespan, saving you on the cost of oil changes each year. 

Almost all modern Ford vehicles should use synthetic motor oil because it protects the engine better from harm. Synthetic oil prevents clogging and corrosion far better and is also more resistant to changes in temperature, protecting your engine better during winter. 

When To Use Conventional Motor Oil

Conventional oil is derived from crude oil and refined to lubricate automotive engines well. Additives are also included in conventional oil, but not nearly to the same extent as synthetic motor oil, which has a more refined molecular structure allowing for more precise formulation. As conventional oil can’t compete with synthetic oil in terms of performance, its only advantage is considered to be price. 

However, when using synthetic oil, you need less frequent oil changes (two per year rather than four for most drivers) and will usually experience less engine trouble down the road. Your engine and car are also likely to last longer. These factors tend to even out the cost difference. But if you have an older Ford model with a simpler engine design and you don’t drive it much, conventional oil might be a reasonable cost-effective option.

Book Routine Oil Change Services at Your Ford Dealership

Allow us to help determine the ideal motor oil for your car. When you schedule routine oil changes with us, our technicians can ensure that your engine is always running smoothly with the best oil possible. 

Visit Koons Ford Silver Spring in Silver Spring, MD, today to have your oil refreshed by courteous, efficient professionals. We offer great vehicles, deals, financing, car maintenance, and customer service.