Can You Mix Synthetic Oil With Conventional Oil?

What Is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil came from an unusual and controversial source. In 1929, Nazi Germany pushed for the development of synthetic oil. When Allied Forces imposed an oil shortage in Germany during World War II, they created a synthetic alternative. It was not regularly used in the United States until the 1970s oil crisis.

Synthetic oil does contain standard highly refined crude oil. However, it also contains other ingredients, including oil, powder additives, and carrier oil. Carrier oil enables the ingredients and other chemicals to successfully mix.

What Is Conventional Oil?

Conventional oil comes from crude oil and has been used for many years—way before the invention of synthetic oil. Some cars continue to this type of oil for their performance needs.

Can You Mix Synthetic Oil With Conventional Oil?

Mixing oils may seem to be the answer, if your car is low on oil. Maybe there’s a bottle of motor oil in your garage from a car you’ve owned before. Even if your car solely uses synthetic oil, what’s the harm of mixing types?

Mercedes-Benz vehicles and other car brands use synthetic oil for a reason. Their specially designed engines call for the formulation of synthetic oil. If you attempt to mix types of oil, you may not receive the performance that you expect from your car. Plus, the engine and its associated parts may not be protected.

Why Does My Car Need a Motor Oil Replacement?

Do you know why your car needs a motor oil replacement? Synthetic or conventional oil flows through the engine and the associated parts. It enables the components to move smoothly and not grate against each other.

As you drive your car, dust and debris from the road will collect in the oil. Although the oil is meant to absorb that matter, it eventually will taint the oil and make it impure. Oil that’s tainted by this matter cannot perform its main job of lubricating the engine and its parts.

In a car that uses synthetic oil, that may be around the 10,000- or 15,000-mile marker. Even if your vehicle seems to be performing at its usual level, it’s best to schedule a motor oil replacement once it reaches this mileage. That way, you know that your car will receive new, pure oil and a fresh filter.