Oil is the lifeblood of an engine, responsible for lubrication, cooling, and protection against wear. As a vehicle owner in the UK, it’s crucial to understand the various types of engine oils available in the market. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the differences between mineral, semi-synthetic, and full synthetic oils. So, let’s dive in!
Mineral Oil
Mineral oil, also known as conventional oil, is derived directly from crude oil through a refining process. It undergoes minimal treatment, which means it contains impurities and inconsistent molecular structures. Mineral oil is the most basic type of oil and is typically the least expensive.
Advantages:
Cost-Effective: Mineral oil is the most affordable option, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious vehicle owners.
Adequate Lubrication: It provides sufficient lubrication for standard engines, ensuring basic protection against wear and tear.
Disadvantages:
Limited Performance: Mineral oil has limited performance capabilities, especially under extreme temperatures and high-stress conditions.
Frequent Oil Changes: Due to its lower resistance to degradation, mineral oil requires more frequent oil changes compared to synthetic oils.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Its relatively higher viscosity can lead to increased friction, resulting in reduced fuel efficiency.
Semi-Synthetic Oil
Semi-synthetic oil, also known as synthetic blend oil, is a mixture of mineral and synthetic base oils. This type of oil combines the advantages of mineral and synthetic oils to offer a balanced solution.
Advantages:
Improved Performance: Semi-synthetic oil provides better performance and protection compared to mineral oil, particularly under demanding conditions.
Enhanced Viscosity: It maintains a more stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring better protection during cold starts and high operating temperatures.
Extended Oil Change Intervals: Semi-synthetic oil offers improved resistance to degradation, enabling longer intervals between oil changes compared to mineral oil.
Disadvantages:
Cost: Semi-synthetic oil is more expensive than mineral oil but generally more affordable than full synthetic oil.
Limited Extreme Performance: While it provides better protection than mineral oil, semi-synth...Continue Reading