Should I use Synthetic Oil, or Conventional Oil?

7/26/2021 10:00:00 AM

What's the deal with motor oil? Why synthetic over conventional?

You’ve probably already heard that regular oil changes in Calgary, and any city for that matter, are extremely important for the health of your vehicle’s engine. That’s sound advice. But what you might not know is when it comes to motor oil, the real thing may not be the best thing for your engine. I know, if you're here in Alberta than this might sound crazy! But let us explain.

There are different types of motor oil:

Conventional oil, extracted from the ground and refined.
Synthetic oil, manufactured from high-quality base oils and artificially-made chemical compounds.
Synthetic oil blend, a mixture of conventional and synthetic oils.

The first thing you need to know is that most new engines require synthetic oil. If synthetic oil is recommended for your car – you MUST use it.

For the rest, there are many advantages to using synthetic oil over conventional oil.

Synthetic oil provides better protection for your engine while helping it to perform better.
Conventional oil breaks down over time, while synthetic oil lasts longer.
Synthetics can stand higher temperature extremes, both heat, and cold.

For those of us living in Calgary, synthetic oil can be a better choice as we live in an extremely hot or cold climate, or if you put a lot of strain on your engine by towing or carrying heavy loads, synthetic all the way! It also may be good for older engines that sometimes have a tendency to develop sludge.

Synthetic oil is a more expensive option, but you likely won’t have to have your oil changed as often. Some synthetics are recommended to last 10,000-15,000 miles/16,000-24,000 km between changes. This will save you money in the long run, and as the best mechanic in Calgary (yes, we are biased) that is exactly what we are trying to do!

You might also consider a synthetic blend that gives you some of the advantages of synthetic oil at a lower cost. Have a talk with one of the service advisors at our automotive repair shop, Haney or Tammy are amazing at what they do and can tell you about recommendations for what will best suit your vehicle and driving habits.

It’s interesting to note that in recent years, more than one out of two vehicle owners are opting for synthetic oil or a synthetic blend when they get their oil changed. Sounds like they’re on to something. In the long run, if you have fewer oil changes with synthetics, you’ll use less oil, a bonus for our environment.

Feel free to reach out to us, we'd be happy to answer any questions or to book you an appointment for an oil change.

Autolane Automotive Services
3005 23rd Street N.E.
Calgary, AB T2E 7A4
(403) 235-2912

The facts about air conditioning

7/26/2021 11:00:00 AM

Have you ever been driving on a hot summer day, and wondered why isn’t my air conditioner blowing cold air?

Your air conditioning system uses refrigerant to create cold air. The most common reasons Calgary drivers lose their cold air have to do with the refrigerant.

The first is not enough refrigerant. Refrigerant is a gas in the system and if there are very small holes in a hose, seal or coupler it can allow enough gas to leak out to prevent the creation of cold air.

Another potential problem for Calgary auto owners is contamination. Over time the inside of the rubber hoses can deteriorate and little bits of rubber can clog up various filters and other vital parts of the vehicle A/C system, preventing proper circulation of the refrigerant. And a component could also be worn or broken. So the first step for Calgary drivers who can't cool their vehicle is a thorough air conditioning inspection, looking for leaks and worn parts. In fact, inspections are required before adding refrigerant. Some areas do not allow topping off a leaking system.

Once any vital repairs are made, refrigerant is added. At the same time, special oil is added to the system. This oil cools and lubricates various components as it circulates along with the refrigerant. If you have a refrigerant leak, you also have an oil leak – and it's vital that both be replenished for proper function and protection of your A/C system.

Sometimes overlooked by drivers is the fact that a worn serpentine belt (which drives the A/C compressor) leads to belt slippage which puts additional strain on the compressor. Replacing your serpentine belt and belt tensioner on schedule with Cetus automotive repair in Calgary will extend the life of your A/C compressor and other vital belt driven accessories.

Stop by or give us a call, we'd be happy to help!

Autolane Automotive Services
3005 23rd Street N.E.
Calgary, AB T2E 7A4
(403) 235-2912