When it comes to choosing the right motor oil for your car, the options can be overwhelming. Synthetic oil and conventional oil each have benefits, but how do you decide which is best for your vehicle? While you might not think your oil choice matters that much, it can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance, making it essential to choose the right product. 

If you’re preparing for an oil change and want to learn more about the difference between the two, keep reading. 

What is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil is a man-made lubricant with fewer impurities than its conventional counterpart. It is designed with a more consistent molecular structure, which helps it perform better in extreme temperatures and under heavy loads. Synthetic oil typically contains additives to enhance its properties, including reducing friction, preventing sludge build-up, and protecting your engine from wear and tear. 

The Benefits of Synthetic Oil

Since its introduction in 1996, synthetic oil has become increasingly popular among car manufacturers. This is because of the many benefits of using synthetic oil in vehicles, including the following:

• Better performance in high and low temperatures
• Longer intervals between oil changes
• Improved fuel efficiency
• Reduced engine wear and cleaner operation 

What is Conventional Oil? 

Conventional oil, also known as mineral oil, is derived from crude oil and has been used in vehicles for decades. This oil undergoes a refining process to remove impurities, but it doesn’t have the enhanced features that synthetic oil offers. While it may not be as advanced as synthetic, it is still effective at lubricating and protecting your engine, especially in standard driving conditions.

The Benefits of Conventional Oil

Conventional oil has been used in vehicles since the late 19th century and was the premier engine lubricant in the earliest vehicles, including steam engines. Some of the benefits of using this oil in vehicles include the following: 

• More affordable than its synthetic counterparts
• Effective for older engines or low-mileage vehicles
• Works well in average driving conditions

How Do You Know Which Oil Your Car Uses? 

The easiest way to find out what type of oil your car requires is to check the owner’s manual. The manufacturer will specify whether your vehicle needs synthetic, conventional, or a blend of both. If you don’t have access to the manual, you can also check the oil cap under the hood or look up your car’s make and model online.

Other factors that might determine your car’s oil needs include:

• Age of the Vehicle: Older engines may benefit more from conventional oil, while modern engines often run better on synthetic oil.
• Driving Habits: If you frequently drive in extreme temperatures or heavy traffic, synthetic oil may be the better choice. Conventional oil can suffice for those with a more predictable commute and drive under normal conditions.
• Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Some car manufacturers specifically design their engines to work with synthetic oil for better performance. Using the recommended oil can help maintain your car’s warranty and ensure optimal engine health.

Does It Matter Which Oil You Use? 

While you may not realize it, the oil you use in your car has a major impact on its performance. Here’s why: 

Performance and Protection:

Synthetic products provide superior protection, especially when driving in extreme heat or cold. Its enhanced lubricating properties mean your engine runs smoother, quieter, and more efficiently. Conventional oil might not offer the same level of protection, especially if you’re dealing with high engine temperatures.

Longevity and Cost:

While synthetic is more expensive, it lasts longer than conventional oil. This means fewer oil changes, which can save you time and money in the long run. If you have a newer car or drive long distances regularly, synthetic oil can be a more cost-effective option. On the other hand, if you drive an older car with a lower mileage rate, conventional oil may be all you need.

Engine Requirements:

Using the wrong type of oil can lead to engine issues. If your car is designed to use synthetic, switching to conventional could cause problems. Similarly, switching from conventional to synthetic can sometimes cause leaks in older engines. It’s essential to follow your vehicle’s manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid damage.

Synthetic Blend–Finding Middle Ground

For drivers who want some of the benefits of synthetic oil without the full price, synthetic blend oils are also available. These are mixtures of synthetic and conventional oils, offering some performance advantages at a lower cost.

Oil Changes and More in Roy, Utah

Choosing between synthetic and conventional oil depends on various factors, including your driving habits, the age of your car, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. While synthetic oil offers better performance, efficiency, and engine protection, conventional oil remains a reliable, budget-friendly option for many drivers. Always check your vehicle’s manual to see what the manufacturer recommends, and consider your driving style and environment before deciding.

Keeping your engine running smoothly is crucial, and using the right oil is essential to vehicle maintenance. If you’re still unsure, consult a trusted mechanic, like our team at Paskett Auto, who can help you determine the best oil for your car. With years of experience helping vehicle owners across the Wasatch Front care for their vehicles, we’re confident we can do the same for you.

If you would like to schedule an oil change with our team or have any questions about our services, reach out to us today.

As temperatures drop, many drivers may wonder if they should let their car warm up before hitting the road. While it might seem like a good idea, the reality is much more complex. Can letting your car warm up before driving do more damage to your vehicle than you realize? In this blog, we’ll discuss whether warming up your car is beneficial, especially as cold weather approaches, and what laws you should be aware of if you live in Utah.  

The Myth About Letting Your Car Warm Up

There is a long-standing belief that letting your car warm up before driving helps it run smoother, especially as cold weather comes to town. This belief stems from a time when vehicles used carburetors, which did indeed need warming up to function properly. However, more modern vehicles are designed with fuel injection systems that adjust automatically to temperature changes, making lengthy warm-up times unnecessary. 

In most cases, your car’s engine will only need 30 seconds to a minute to warm up before it is safe to drive. In addition to requiring minimal warm-up time, driving your vehicle is actually a better way to warm up the engine because it gets the oil circulating faster, providing proper lubrication to the engine parts.

However, this is only possible if you are performing necessary maintenance on your vehicle. Before winter weather rolls into town, it is best to schedule an oil change and any other required maintenance and repairs for your car. Not only will this ensure it runs well when the temperature drops below zero, but it also ensures you have a safe vehicle to carry you throughout the season. 

The Harm of Extended Idling

Letting your car warm up for extended periods can lead to unnecessary and avoidable wear and tear on your engine. This is especially true in cold weather, as idling does not warm up the transmission, tires, or other essential components that also need to be at optimal temperatures for smooth operation. 

Letting your car warm up for extended periods also burns fuel inefficiently, leading to higher costs at the pump. More importantly, it can contribute to environmental pollution, emitting more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere than necessary. If you are concerned about your gas bill or carbon footprint, it is best to avoid letting your car warm up this winter. 

What About During Extreme Cold? 

It is reasonable to give your vehicle a few extra moments to warm up in extremely cold temperatures or anything below freezing. But again, while you might want to let your car warm up, driving slowly and gently at the start is a more effective way to warm up all of your car’s components. Make sure to clear ice and snow from the windshield and mirrors, but don’t rely on idling to do this for you. Once this snow and ice is removed, it is safe to begin driving. 

Utah’s Idling Laws

If you live in Utah, being aware of local idling laws is important. Utah has specific regulations in place to limit vehicle idling as part of a long-standing effort to reduce air pollution. In many cities and counties, including Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Logan, vehicles are prohibited from idling for more than two minutes.

Violating Utah’s idling laws can result in a warning, a fine of up to $750, or up to 90 days in jail, depending on where you are. The state enforces these rules to help reduce emissions that contribute to air pollution, which is a serious issue in the winter months due to temperature inversions. If you are used to letting your car warm up for long periods, it is best to rethink this warm-up routine. 

Best Practice for Cold Weather Driving

If you have to drive your vehicle when the temperature is below freezing, there are a few things you should remember to do. These include:

• Limit Idle Time: When starting your car, it is best to give it about 30 seconds to a minute to warm up and then drive slowly. Your vehicle will heat up faster while in motion. 
• Use a Block Heater: If you live in an area with extremely cold winter weather, you should consider using a block heater to help your car warm up. This reduces the need for idling and makes starting your vehicle easier. 
• Keep Your Vehicle Maintained: Make sure your battery, fluids, and tires are winter-ready. A well-maintained vehicle will be less affected by cold starts. 

Protecting Your Vehicle All Year Long

While you may be tempted to let your car warm up before driving on a chilly morning, it is usually an unnecessary extra step for modern vehicles. Short idling times are sufficient, and driving gently is the most effective way to warm up your car. By following best practices and complying with Utah’s idling laws, you can save on fuel, protect your engine, and contribute to cleaner air. 

If, however, extended idling has harmed your vehicle, turn to our team at Paskett Auto for support. Whether you are dealing with minor vehicle problems or more extreme damage, our team is trained and equipped to handle it all. In addition to our more major vehicle repairs, we can help with yearly maintenance, ensuring your vehicle is in good working condition for years to come.

If you would like to schedule maintenance with our team or if you have any questions for us, don’t hesitate to contact us today. 

Social media is plagued by videos of car owners packing their glove compartment with hand sanitizers, lip balms, and snacks. While you might enjoy keeping these things on hand, there are far more important items you want to ensure are on hand. In fact, there are several items that are essential for storing in your glove compartment to keep yourself and your vehicle safe. 

At Paskett Auto, we understand the importance of keeping your glove compartment packed with essential documents, safety equipment, and more. Storing the wrong items in your glove compartment may leave you feeling stranded in the event of an emergency. If you want to learn more about what you should store in your vehicle’s glove compartment, keep reading. 

The History of Your Glove Compartment

Your glove compartment, also known as the glovebox, originated in the early 20th century as cars became more common. Initially, it was a place designed to hold driving gloves, which were essential for early motorists to protect their hands from the elements and to ensure a good grip on the steering wheel. However, over time, driving gloves fell out of fashion. While they became less common, the space still acted as a reliable place to store essentials in your vehicle. But, what essentials should you store in your glove compartment? 

Essential Documents

There are several essential documents you should keep in your glove compartment, especially if you get into an accident or are dealing with dashboard warning lights, including: 

Your Insurance Card

One of the most important items you should keep in your glove compartment is a copy of your insurance card. Proof of insurance is essential in the event that you are in an accident or you get pulled over. By keeping a copy of your insurance card in the glove compartment, you ensure it is easily reachable when you need it most. 

Your Registration

In addition to needing proof of insurance when being pulled over, you will also need proof of vehicle registration. When putting your insurance card in your glove compartment, make sure that you also put a copy of your vehicle registration in there to ensure you have it if you ever need it. 

Your Owner’s Manual

While the entire manual isn’t necessarily going to be helpful while driving your vehicle, it does have some important information in it. When your car’s dashboard lights turn on, the manual can help you identify the problem, helping you determine if you need to take your car in for maintenance or repairs. 

Safety Equipment

Roadside emergencies can happen at any time, and it is essential that you have safety equipment on hand when they occur. Some of the essential safety equipment you should keep in your glove compartment include: 

A Flashlight and Extra Batteries

Whether you drop something under your seat or get a flat tire after nightfall, keeping a flashlight and spare batteries in your glove compartment will provide you with adequate light. Make sure to double-check the flashlight regularly and replace the batteries as necessary to ensure it is always in good working condition. 

A Multi-Use Tool

Multi-use tools can be an invaluable addition to your glove compartment in a variety of situations. These tools feature small scissors, screwdrivers, and pliers to help you make small repairs to your vehicle before taking it in for more significant repairs. 

A First-Aid Kit

The American Red Cross sells car first aid kits, which provide you with a variety of bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, and more to keep yourself safe in the event of an injury. Whether you’re dealing with a small cut or a larger injury, keeping your first aid kit on hand is a great way to ensure proper coverage and protection from the elements. 

A Seatbelt Cutter

The idea of having to cut off your seatbelt is incredibly daunting. However, while you might not want to think about it, keeping a seatbelt cutter in your glove compartment is a great way to protect yourself from getting stuck in your vehicle, especially in the event of an accident.  

Roadside Assistance Tools for Your Trunk

Your glove compartment isn’t the only place where you can store things in your car. You can also store things in your car’s trunk, especially to keep you safe when dealing with vehicle malfunctions and accidents. Some things you should store in your trunk include: 

Jumper Cables

You never plan for your car’s battery to die, but, the day may come and you want to be prepared when it occurs. By keeping jumper cables in your car’s trunk, you can protect yourself from being stranded and having to pay a high towing bill instead. 

A Spare Tire

When you get a flat tire, it can be frustrating to have to swap it out. But, what’s even worse is opening the trunk of your car, only to remember you’ve already used your spare. Make sure you always have a spare tire on hand so you don’t end up stranded somewhere, waiting for a ride home. 

Keep Your Car Safe by Scheduling Regular Maintenance

While there are many things you should keep in your glove compartment to stay safe while driving, that isn’t the only way to keep your vehicle safe. Scheduling regular vehicle maintenance is also a great way to stay safe from harm. If you are looking for a reliable automotive service provider in the Roy, Utah, area, turn to our team at Paskett Auto. 

Our team has provided reliable automotive care to car owners across the Wasatch Front for years, making us the perfect choice for your vehicle as well. Whether you want to schedule regular maintenance or oil changes, our team is here to help you through it all. If you would like to schedule vehicle maintenance with our team, don’t hesitate to contact us today.