First, petroleum-based oils are made from crude oil. It is purified through a refining process that includes desalting, partial vaporization, vacuum distillation, solvent extraction, dewaxing and sometimes hydrofinishing (this process is used with more premium petroleum basestocks). These processes are done to remove contaminants and purify the oil. The important thing to remember is that companies must spend money on this process. They must attempt to find quality crude oil basestocks and then they must also spend on the refining process. This is reflected in the prices you will pay - higher quality, better-refined, brand name motor oils will cost more.
There are also petroleum-based motor oils that are so pure and refined that they can be sold as synthetic. These oils are put through a process called "hydrocracking," which actually changes the molecular structure of the oil. These oils have much better performance characteristics and can legally be labeled as synthetic. In fact, most of the oils you will find at your local auto parts store that are labeled "synthetic" are of this variety.
"True" synthetic motor oils have been designed specifically for the purpose of lubrication. As such, they are an improvement in all ways over petroleum-based motor oils. They have improved low and high temperature performance, better friction reduction and a longer life span. Simply put, synthetics protect, lubricate and cool better than petroleum-based oils.
Image via WikipediaDoes this mean you should use synthetic motor oils in your car? Not necessarily. If you have an older vehicle, switching to synthetics may expose leaking gaskets and seals in your engine. In addition, if you are a low mileage driver, synthetic oils may not be worth the expense involved. It is important when trying to decide between petroleum-based and synthetic motor oils to do your research and make sure to choose what's best for your needs.The Motor Oil Guy
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