Glossary / General

conventional oil

12 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

Conventional oil is regular oil made from natural sources. It's the most common type used in cars, but it doesn't perform as well as synthetic oil in extreme conditions.

Technical Definition

Conventional oil, also known as mineral oil, is derived from refining crude oil. It is the most basic type of motor oil and is generally less expensive than synthetic oil, but may not provide the same level of protection or performance.

Hear It Discussed

"Well, that's like conventional oil, [725.5s] all different sizes, larger pieces with synthetic, smaller molecules. They're all the same size."
Save Money On Car Repairs With Our Car Talk Show Under The Hood show 11:58

"...the breakdown point is so much higher on synthetic versus conventional oil... you're going to be breaking down conventional oils pretty quick."
S3, E91 - All About Oil The Truck Show Podcast 28:42

"another myth that always comes up, once you've gone to synthetic oil, you can't switch back. And if you want to switch back to conventional oil, it's perfectly acceptable."
Engine Oil 101: Expert Car Maintenance Advice from Quaker State + BMW 550e review The Car Doctor Podcast 22:01