Summary – Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil
Conventional oil is petroleum-based and less expensive, but breaks down faster. Synthetic oil is chemically engineered for superior protection, better performance in extreme temperatures, and longer intervals between oil changes. Most modern Mazda engines require synthetic oil for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
Key takeaway: Always follow your Mazda owner's manual. Art Hill Mazda's factory-trained technicians recommend the right oil for your specific model.
Since 1948, Art Hill Mazda has been the go-to choice for families and customers throughout Northwest Indiana seeking a stress-free car-buying and service experience. That's close to 78 years of exceeding customer expectations by embracing a family-first-and-always approach to sales and servicing. It's something our entire team takes very seriously, and we pride ourselves on doing things other dealerships never consider.
One of the most important parts of being the most trusted dealership in Merrillville, Indiana, is that our exceptional maintenance and service team always goes the extra mile to keep our customers' Mazda vehicles performing their best. Part of that includes regular Mazda oil changes.
So, why are oil changes so important, and what is the difference between conventional oil and synthetic oil?
Why Regular Mazda Oil Changes Are Essential
A Mazda engine is a precision-engineered assembly with multiple moving parts. Those parts must be properly lubricated to reduce friction and wear between adjacent parts. Without proper lubrication, those engine parts can rub up against one another, causing excessive heat. Over time, that excessive friction can damage the parts and the engine itself.
- Regular oil changes improve fuel efficiency
- Regular oil changes improve engine performance
- Regular oil changes can help extend engine life
- Older oil becomes dirty and contaminated
- New oil has better viscosity to protect engine parts
Regular oil changes are essential. Over time, older oil loses its viscosity. It gathers dirt and debris. An oil change removes that older contaminated oil and replaces it with new oil. That newer oil has the right viscosity — meaning it has the right thickness to provide a protective film between moving engine parts.
Regular oil changes protect your engine's components. It helps to extend the life of your engine, while improving fuel efficiency and performance. Mazda typically recommends an oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on the model of Mazda you're driving, the engine, and your driving habits.
What Is Conventional Oil?
Conventional engine oil is a petroleum-based oil refined from crude oil. It is less expensive and readily available but mostly used on older engines. It breaks down faster and, as such, it doesn't hold its viscosity the way synthetic oil does. Therefore, while conventional oil does lubricate engine parts and keeps them protected, it doesn't last as long as synthetic oil, which means more frequent oil changes.
- ✓ Less expensive
- ✓ Readily available
- ✓ Doesn't last as long as synthetic oil
- ✓ Mainly used on older engines and vehicles
What Is Synthetic Oil?
Whereas conventional oil is derived directly from crude oil, synthetic oil is a chemically engineered oil. It is a more expensive engine oil. However, its formulation is much more suited for Mazda engines. Mazda recommends synthetic oil because it provides better engine protection, increased fuel efficiency, and improved engine performance.
Synthetic oil helps to keep newer model Mazda engines cleaner, and it provides much better performance in environmental extremes. This means better driving performance in extremely hot and extremely cold weather.
- ✓ Better engine protection
- ✓ Improved performance in hot and cold weather
- ✓ Better resistance to breakdown
- ✓ Helps keep the engine cleaner
- ✓ Longer-lasting than conventional oil
- ✓ Can improve fuel efficiency
Because synthetic engine oil doesn't break down as easily as conventional oil, it lasts longer and requires less frequent oil changes.
Which Oil Is Right for Your Mazda?
In the end, it's really about what your Mazda owner's manual states and its required maintenance schedule. That manual has all the information required in terms of frequency of oil changes and the best type of oil to use.
- Always follow Mazda's owner's manual and maintenance schedule.
- Newer Mazda models typically require synthetic oil.
- Using the recommended oil helps maintain performance and reliability.
- Our Mazda-trained technicians can recommend the correct oil based on your model.
At Art Hill Mazda, our team knows exactly which engine oil to use for your Mazda. Our team works on Mazda vehicles daily and we'll ensure you have the right options with each oil change. However, while conventional oil is still used, newer Mazda models typically require synthetic oil.
Schedule Your Next Mazda Oil Change at Art Hill Mazda
At Art Hill Mazda, our factory-trained Mazda mechanics and technicians are experts in their fields. These subject-matter experts work alongside a dedicated parts and service team focused entirely on helping you get the very best performance out of your Mazda. We provide genuine Mazda parts, fast and reliable convenience, and expert insight into simple steps to keep your Mazda running its best.
If you would like to schedule an oil change or have questions about our other services, call our service department at 219-355-3398 or book your appointment now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use synthetic or conventional oil for my Mazda at Art Hill Mazda?
Most modern Mazda vehicles with Skyactiv® engines require full synthetic oil (usually 0W-20) for optimal performance. Check your owner's manual or ask our Merrillville service team to confirm your specific model's requirements.
What are the main differences in performance and protection?
Synthetic oil undergoes intensive chemical processing to resist extreme heat and sludge, offering superior engine protection compared to basic conventional petroleum oil. This results in smoother flow and immediate lubrication upon startup.
How often do I need to change synthetic vs. conventional oil?
Synthetic oil typically lasts longer, requiring changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, while conventional oil usually calls for more frequent changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
Is synthetic oil more expensive, and is it worth the investment?
While synthetic oil carries a higher upfront cost, it lasts longer, protects your engine better, and often saves money over time through improved fuel economy. Art Hill Mazda also offers regular service specials to help reduce maintenance costs.
Does getting an oil change at Art Hill Mazda include a multi-point inspection?
Yes! Every oil change at our Merrillville, IN location includes a complimentary Mazda Full Circle Service inspection evaluating your tires, brakes, and overall vehicle health.
Art Hill Mazda
Address:
957 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN 46410
Phone:
219-208-7070
Dealership Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: Closed