Synthetic vs. conventional oil: what's the difference?

So what's the difference between synthetic and regular oil? Why is it so much more expensive? And why do some cars specifically require the pricey choice? We're continuing our month long look at common mechanical questions, with the help of Knibbe Automotive in Calgary.

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[ridds]

The only difference from a conventional to a synthetic is the synthetic will have better cold temperature properties such as a better pour point and better volatility properties. That's it.
An oils base stock is very important. Only purchase oils from major oil companies with a group stock of 2+ or higher.
Make sure the oil has the starburst of ILSAC, International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee,  and that the company has paid the license for the engine requirement specification. Example would be Mercedes-Benz 229.51.
Licensed and a minimum of suitable for use.

[bosse]

Really like this series. Very helpful. Keep it up :-)

[mountainhobo]

If your car ran on regular oil for 40-50K miles, is it wise to change over to synthetic, or does prolonged use of regular oil cause different wear patterns, which might make switching over to synthetic counterproductive?

[jayakrishna]

5000kms and synthetic oil!!!
You can buy a new car in 3 years just by the amount you spend on the maintenance

[sandraboyle]

2017 mazda cx-5 need synthetic? THANKs 🌟

[zhaoguanyugary]

5000km for synthetic oil is just money grab. You can do 10000km easily

[rockslide]

Really ineffective, counter productive video. Synthetic is a much better oil, flows in freezing climates, protects better in hot climates and under severe driving conditions. And no, it shouldn't cost that much more. Unless your garage charges a hefty premium for it. And don't touch a customer's paint with oily gloves!

[robertmontgomery]

Change synthetic oil every 5k is foolish