“The Truth About Synthetic Oil: Why Shops Recommend It and When It’s Really Necessary”

The Real Story Behind Synthetic Oil Recommendations

1. Markup and Profit Motive

• Quick-lube shops mark up synthetic oil by 200%, making a routine maintenance job a big profit opportunity.
• A $75 synthetic oil change may cost the shop only $25 in materials and labor.
• Conventional oil offers similar engine protection for most vehicles at half the cost, saving drivers $150–$200 per year.

2. When Synthetic Oil Actually Matters

• Synthetic oil performs better under severe driving conditions:
  • Extreme climates (very hot or cold)
  • Heavy towing or loads
  • Engines that rarely reach operating temperature
  • Drivers who delay regular oil changes
• AAA tests show synthetic oil is 47% more resistant to breakdown and maintains temperature stability, but these benefits are mostly relevant in extreme scenarios.

3. Follow the Owner’s Manual, Not Sales Pitches

• Most cars run perfectly well on conventional oil, unless the manufacturer specifically requires synthetic.
• About 70% of cars from 2019 onward do require synthetic — but that’s based on engineering, not shop recommendations.
• The upsell to synthetic often exploits driver anxiety rather than protecting the engine.

4. Smart Exceptions

• Use synthetic only if your driving falls into “severe usage” conditions.
• Otherwise, sticking to conventional oil per your owner’s manual keeps your engine protected without unnecessary expense.

5. Bottom Line

• Synthetic oil is premium and not necessary for most drivers.
• Understanding your car’s requirements and your driving patterns can save money without harming your engine.