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How do I know if my car needs synthetic oil?

I bought a new car about six months ago and I’m going to get my oil changed soon. I know there are different types of oil and I’m pretty sure I need a synthetic oil, but I don’t know for sure. How can I tell if my car needs synthetic oil?

avatar
Andrew Biro · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
It’s good to see you’re taking care of
car’s maintenance
! The easiest way to know whether your car needs synthetic oil is to check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the types of oil your vehicle can take.
Most newer cars will have the option of taking either regular or synthetic oil. If your owner’s manual gives you this choice, it’s usually better to go with synthetic as it promotes better performance than most conventional oils.
If you can’t consult your owner’s manual for whatever reason, you can simply ask your mechanic when you go in to have your oil changed. They will help you figure out which type of oil best suits your vehicle and recommend different synthetic or synthetic-blend oils.
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