Business & Tech
Californians Probably Use The Wrong Car Oil, AAA Study Reveals
A new study by Southern California AAA found synthetic oil works significantly better than conventional despite what most people think.
LOS ANGELES, CA — Despite what many drivers think, synthetic motor oil provides far greater engine protection than conventional oil, according to a study released Tuesday by the Automobile Club of Southern California, which recommended that motorists consider making the switch.
"Oil protects critical engine components from damage and AAA found that synthetic engine oils performed an average of 47 percent better than conventional oils in a variety of industry-standard tests," said Dave Skaien, manager of the Auto Club of Southern California's AAA Approved Auto Repair Program.
"With synthetic oil's superior resistance to deterioration, AAA's findings indicate that it is particularly beneficial to newer vehicles with turbo-charged engines and for vehicles like those in California that frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, tow heavy loads or operate in extreme hot or cold conditions," he said.
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Auto Club officials said switching to a synthetic motor oil costs an average of about $5 a month, noting that a conventional oil change averages about $38, while a synthetic oil change is about $70. That increased cost is often cited as a reason for drivers to stick with the traditional oil, according to AAA.
According to a nationwide survey of drivers, 27 percent said they were unsure if synthetic oil would be beneficial, while 17 percent simply did not believe the synthetic is a better choice. Some drivers surveyed said they felt synthetic oil is too expensive, offers no benefit or is used as an attempt by repair facilities to "up-sell" customers.
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Skaien said he understands drivers' skepticism about choosing an option that can double the cost of an oil change, but the move can be beneficial over time.
"While manufacturer-approved conventional oil will not harm a vehicle's engine, the additional $30 per oil change could actually save money in the long run by protecting critical engine components over time," he said.
City News Service; Photo by Dvortygirl via Wikimedia Commons
