Synthetic oils have been available for
almost 30 years and a number of inaccurate myths have developed during
this time. Some areas of misunderstanding are clarified below,
including manufacturer requirements for using synthetics, how to switch
from conventional to synthetic oil and the effects of synthetics on an
engine.
• Myth 1: Synthetic oils are too
thin to stay in the engine. This is not true. In order for a
lubricant to be classified in any SAE grade (10W-30, 10W-40, etc.) it
has to meet the viscosity guidelines, or thickness, specified by the
vehicle manufacturer.
• Myth 2: Synthetic
oils will void manufacturers’ warranties. Synthetic oils such as
Pennzoil Platinum® will not void manufacturer warranties. They are
formulated with the requirements of the auto manufacturers in mind, and
so if used in accordance with the owner’s manual, synthetic oils will
not void any of the warranties. The only exception is that full
synthetic oils should not be used in Mazda Rotary engines, which have
unique and specific lubrication requirements. Always check the vehicle
owner’s manual.
• Myth 3: You can’t switch between conventional oil
and synthetic oil. Switching between synthetic and conventional oil
will not cause any harm to engines. Synthetic oils and conventional
oils are formulated to help protect your emission system, including
oxygen sensors and catalytic converters.
• Myth 4: Synthetic oil will make seals leak. If an older engine’s
seals do not leak with conventional oil, they will not leak after
switching to synthetic oil. Synthetic oils do not damage engine seals
in an engine of any age.
• Myth 5: Synthetic oil cannot be used to “break in” a rebuilt
engine. In a rebuilt engine, a certain amount of controlled wear can
be expected to occur to allow piston rings to “seat” and the engine to
“break in.” Synthetic oil may be used for the “break-in” period and
throughout the life of the engine.
Synthetic base oils combined with a strong additive package allow
synthetic oils to perform better than conventional motor oils under
virtually all conditions. In addition to this unique additive package,
Pennzoil Platinum® now has adaptive molecules which protect against
heat, shear and pressure inside an engine.
Provided by Pennzoil
