Can You Mix Synthetic Oil With Regular Oil For Smooth Running Of Your Car’s Engine?

December 10, 2024
Can You Mix Synthetic Oil with Regular Oil

Motor oil plays a vital role in keeping the friction off your engine to run it smoothly and protecting it from wear and tear. There are lots of options available, including synthetic oil, regular oil, and full synthetic oil. A lot of car owners ask if it is possible to mix synthetic oil with regular oil. While there’s no harm in mixing the two, it’s not recommended to do so. There are, however, lots of considerations for you to consider. In this blog, we’ll explore the compatibility, benefits, and potential drawbacks of mixing these oils while understanding the key differences between them.

Understanding Synthetic Oil vs. Regular Oil

What is Synthetic Oil?

Synthetic oil is a man-made lubricant created through a highly controlled process to deliver superior performance and protection. It contains chemically engineered base oils and additives that enhance cleaning, viscosity, and thermal stability.

Synthetic oil is designed to resist breakdown under extreme temperatures, offer better engine protection, and last longer than conventional oil.

What is Conventional Oil?

Conventional or regular oil is extracted from crude oil. It has minimal processing and much fewer additives than synthetic oil. Though it does the job of standard lubrication in the engine it gets degraded quickly in high temperatures and has to be changed too frequently.
For detailed solutions and insights, read our article on Oil on the Spark Plugs – Causes and Fixes.

What Happens When You Mix Synthetic Oil with Regular Oil?

In general, synthetic oil can easily be mixed with regular conventional oil. But as in everything, there are exceptions. So, here are the gritty details of what happens when these two oils mix:

1. Mixing without harm

Modern synthetic oils are blended to be compatible with traditional oils, so there is no direct danger in mixing those into the engine. Both lubricate parts of the engine, reducing friction and providing protection against wear.

2. Performance Benefit Dilution

Whereas synthetic oil can offer high-performance benefits from its superior temperature stability, cleaning ability, and longevity, diluting it with conventional oil diminishes those benefits. For example:

  • Thermal Stability: Synthetic oil's durability at extreme temperatures may become compromised.

  • Cleaning Power: The old conventional oil may cause a weakening of the synthetic oil to clean engine deposits and prevent it from forming sludge.

  • Oil Longevity: It won't last as long as pure synthetic oil, and oil changes would be needed sooner.

3. Viscosity Must Match

If the synthetic and the conventional oils have different viscosity grades like 5W-20 versus 10W-30, it may well alter the performance of the engine. Therefore, one must ensure that the oils used are from the same category of viscosity rating.

4. Not Suitable for Long-Term Usage

Mixing oils should be a temporary solution, such as when you’re low on oil and need a top-up but only have access to a different type. Over time, using a consistent oil type (synthetic or conventional) is better for maintaining optimal engine health.

5. Possible Additive Conflicts

Synthetic and conventional oils will differ in the additive package, which may include detergents, friction modifiers, and anti-wear agents. Because they are designed to be compatible with each other, mixing them can reduce the effectiveness of some of these additives by a minor degree.

6. Warranty Implications

If the owner's manual requires synthetic oil for your vehicle, mixing synthetic with conventional oil could void the warranty. Always consult the owner's manual for such specifications to avoid any such occurrences.

When Is It Safe to Mix Synthetic and Conventional Oil?

It is fine to mix these two types of oils if the following conditions are met:

In Emergency Situations: In case you do not have synthetic oil, running your engine on conventional oil will prevent damage to it from low levels.

At Oil Changes: Some motorists mix their synthetic and conventional oils in order to cut costs; semi-synthetic or synthetic blend oils are pre-mixed varieties available in the market.    

Benefits Of Synthetic Oil

Synthetic oil is designed to outperform ordinary oil, offering many benefits toward improving the performance, longevity, and efficiency of any engine. Here's a close look at how synthetic oil can protect and perform within the engine of your vehicle:

1. Better Engine Protection

Synthetic oil consistently lubricates under extreme conditions, reducing friction in all moving components, hence minimizing wear and tear, thus prolonging the lifespan of an engine.

2. Better Performance in Low or High Temperatures

Synthetic oil has a better flow in freezing conditions, ensuring quick lubrication at cold starts and reduces engine strain. It resists breaking down at high temperatures, maintaining its viscosity while providing optimal protection during intense heat or heavy driving.

3. Fuel Efficiency

Synthetic oil reduces friction between the engine parts far more efficiently compared to conventional oil, hence creating a smooth engine operation. Such efficiency might result in better mileage, especially on long trips or stop-and-go traffic.

4. Longer Oil Change Intervals

Synthetic oils are more stable and resistant to breakdown than normal oils. They last longer and can go 15,000 miles or even far beyond before requiring any oil change. This saves time and money in the long run.

5. Cleaner Engine Operation

Synthetic oil has additives to prevent or minimize the accumulation of sludge and deposits as well as other contaminants in the engine. A clean engine runs more efficiently and is less apt to be damaged.

6. Less Engine Wear Upon Starting

A car sitting idle for a long time can cause oil to siphon away from key components in the engine. Synthetic oil sticks better to surfaces and provides immediate protection at start-up, the critical time regarding engine wear.

7. Resistance to Oxidation and Breakdown

Synthetic oil resists oxidation and thermal breakdown more significantly than regular oil. This gives synthetic oil the ability to maintain its properties over time, even under stressful driving conditions.

8. Better Protection for Turbocharged Engines

Turbocharged engines tend to run at higher temperatures, requiring an oil that can stand up to high conditions. Due to their thermal stability and superior lubrication, synthetic oils are ideally suited for turbocharged vehicles.

9. Eco-Friendly Benefits

Synthetic oil lasts longer, reduces the frequency of oil changes, and wastes less oil. A cleaner-running engine spews out fewer pollutants and makes synthetic oil highly environmentally friendly.

10. Suitable for High-Performance Cars

Sports cars, luxury cars, and high-performance engines have one requirement synthetic oil since the demand is quite high with the operating conditions. It assures consistent protection as well as performance under aggressive driving.

11. Compatibility with Modern Engines

Synthetic oil has some better characteristics and can be used for tight tolerances and advanced technologies in numerous modern engines. It supports advanced fuel injection systems, variable valve timing, and hybrid engines.

When To Use Synthetic Oil?

1. High-Performance Vehicles

Sports cars and other high-performance vehicles typically demand synthetic oil for its good heat conductivity.

2. Extreme Driving Conditions

 If you do a lot of extreme-temperature driving, tow, or do some really short trips, then your best choice is synthetic oil.

3. For Long Distance Driving

Synthetic oil is formulated to retain its characteristics for longer periods. If you often drive long distances or are frequently going on long road trips, it's the cheapest choice as it decreases the frequency of required oil changes.

4. When Seeking Long Oil Change Intervals

Synthetic oil can go 15,000 miles or further, depending on the brand and vehicle. If you want fewer oil changes and longer intervals, synthetic oil is your bet.

5. To Improve Fuel Economy

If one is looking to get maximum mileage, synthetic oil decreases friction in the engine and helps it run smoothly for longer, hence giving better mileage.

Conclusion: Should Synthetic Oil be Used in Blend with Regular Oil?

Mixing synthetic oil with regular oil is safe in emergencies, but it’s not recommended for long-term use. The best practice is to stick with one type of oil for consistent performance and protection. If you’re considering switching to synthetic oil, consult your owner’s manual or mechanic to ensure compatibility with your vehicle.

Choosing synthetic oil may come at a higher upfront cost, but the benefits in terms of engine longevity, efficiency, and protection outweigh the expense. Always choose high-quality oil that meets your car's specifications for the best possible engine performance.

Stay Updated On Key Car Tips With SAT Japan!

Besides offering top-quality vehicles, SAT Japan offers valuable insights and tips on how to care for your vehicle. From the benefits of synthetic oil, normal maintenance best practices, or choosing the right vehicle for one's needs, SAT Japan is your trusted resource on all these things. Subscribe to SAT Japan’s blogs and newsletter to stay updated on the latest industry trends and car care tips.


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Noah Mitchell

I am Noah Mitchell, an experienced automotive journalist with over 9 years covering the dynamic world of cars and transportation. My in-depth analysis and passion for sustainable mobility drive my stories. I regularly contribute to leading publications an

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2025 Hyundai Palisade​: Redesign, Specs, Range, Speed.

The Hyundai Palisade has been one of the most favored family cars in the petrol-head community. The Palisade has been known to blend style, efficiency, agility, and performance, all in one car. Coming in 7 different trims, with 4 diverse driving modes, this vehicle holds the solutions to all your adventure troubles, with a comfortable cabin, ample cargo space, and an innovative infotainment system. Moving into 2025, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade is introduced with some fresh updates making the SUV even more favorable for drivers. 

Written below are all the incoming updates and changes to the 2025 Hyundai Palisade.

2025 Hyundai Palisade Performance and Efficiency:

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade has a 3.8 Liter V6 engine that is paired with an 8 speed automatic transmission which delivers an output of 291 horsepower. This vehicle’s powertrain also features a manual control option for the transmission to give the driver more control. All trims come with a front-wheel drive, with an optional all-wheel drive upgrade to kick things up a notch. 

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade’s 0-60 miles per hour driving time was tested to be 6.4 seconds, which is impressive for an SUV its size. Additionally, the front wheel drive Palisade has a fuel-economy of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. 

2025 Hyundai Exterior and Interior Update:

This three-row SUV is one of the most stylish of its kind; with a bold cascading grille, flanked by powerful and elongated LED lights, and sharp lines throughout the exterior for aerodynamic manipulation. The Palisade has a muscular stance giving it a sporty and intimidating look. The Palisade also comes with convenient exterior features such as a power liftgate, additional roof rails, folding third-row seats, and a panoramic sunroof. 

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade has an opulent interior with a spacious cabin lined with the finest materials. The interior has a 12.3-inch touchscreen display featuring a dynamic digital cluster, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a premium sound system, dual Bluetooth connectivity, and an innovative remote controlling feature by the Hyundai Blue Link app, which gives you lock control from a distance. 

How Much is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade?

The new model of the 2025 Hyundai Palisade has a starting price of $38,215 and it goes all the way up to the highest trim costing $55,515. The base trim, the SE model costs $38, 215; the second SEL model costs $40,965. The XRT trim comes in at about $44,065 while the SEL Premium trim costs $45,565. The Limited trim of the 2025 Hyundai Palisade costs $49,615 and the Caligraphy model costs $52,015. Last but certainly not least, the Calligraphy Night Edition of the Hyundai Palisade costs $55,515. 

What are the Drive Modes for the 2025 Hyundai Palisade?

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade will be featuring 4 diverse driving modes including comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart driving modes for an optimized and engaging drive:

Comfort: The comfort mode is set to deliver a seamless and smooth driving experience. The suspension and transmission are tuned for daily commuting driving. 

Eco: The Eco mode in the 2025 Hyundai Palisade prioritizes the engine’s fuel efficiency, This mode may not deliver the most powerful performance, but the powertrain is adjusted to consume the least amount of gasoline for the more long-lasting output. This keeps the fuel economy high and decreases fuel costs. 

Sport: The Sport mode focuses primarily on the speed and performance of the 2025 Hyundai Palisade. The steering and powertrain are tuned to create the maximum output while maintaining the vehicle’s agility. 

Smart: The Smart driving mode is an intuitional setting that analyzes your driving style and switches the driving mode accordingly, giving you maneuverability and balance. This driving mode essentially also helps in fuel efficiency. 

Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Expensive to Maintain?

In comparison to other latest models, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade is relatively more affordable to maintain. The annual repair and maintenance cost for this vehicle begins at $352 and rises every year because of depreciation and can reach up to $739 in the first five years after purchase. Additionally, with high fuel efficiency, annual fuel costs are calculated to be up to $2,380 per year. All-in-all, you can rest assured that the 2025 Hyundai Palisade has a low maintenance and upkeep cost. Here are some factors contributing to this:

Hyundai Durability: Hyundai, like most other Japanese automakers, has a business model of constant improvement and innovation. These vehicles are engineered to be optimized for long-term usage. This rhombus engineering keeps your 2025 Hyundai Palisade away from the mechanic for a long while. 

Expected Maintainance: You can rest assured that even if you were to take your Palisade to the mechanic, it would be out of routine, rather than from an unexpected mechanical breakdown. Routine check-ups such as oil changes and tuning will help maintain the longevity of your vehicle.

Visit Now 2025 Hyundai Elantra. 

Why Buy Your SUV Through SAT Japan

SAT Japan is the ultimate destination for those searching for well-maintained and certified Used Cars for Sale. We offer impressive deals on a wide range of luxury and economy vehicles. Our expert staff on board is dedicated to your ease and our customer-centric services will make the entire process unbelievably simpler. Our convenient services such as our insurance services, 24-month installment payment plan, and doorstep delivery, keep our customers stress-free. We recognize our responsibility to present the best course of action according to your preferences.

Although there are no revolutionary switch-ups in the design or performance of the 2025 Hyundai Palisade, it is one of the most reliable upcoming full-size SUVs in the automotive market. It is no easy feat searching through the endless sea of options to reach a final decision. Our expert staff and customer-centric services at SAT Japan help you make the right decision at every step of the purchasing process. Hence, SAT Japan is the ultimate car enthusiast website where you can find a plethora of well-maintained options for your potential next ride. Head on over to SAT Japan’s website and scroll through our vast inventory to find the perfect Hyundai car for you. 

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What Causes Inner Tire Wear? A Detailed Guide.

The modern cars coming in the market are capable of remarkable speeds and give you a highly smooth and comfortable experience. The latest cars are also much safer and come up with advanced and autonomous systems that can stop and steer the vehicle for you in an emergency. However, all the safety and advanced features will not do anything if you have bad tires. For example, inside tire wear is an issue that can affect the tires of many cars rolling on the road.  It is not just about purchasing low-quality tires; it is also about not ensuring their proper maintenance. 

Tire wear is a common problem that can affect your vehicle’s handling, safety, and performance. Although inner tire wear might seem harmless, it can lead to various serious issues, including reduced traction, poor steering response, and even blowouts. 

But why do tires wear out from the inside, and how can you prevent it?

By understanding the factors that contribute to inner tire wear, you can increase the life of your tires and keep them performing at their best. 

Top 5 Causes Behind Tires Wear on Inside 

There are several reasons why your tire can wear from the inside. Below we discuss some of the reasons in detail. 

  1. Camber Angle Issues 

Misaligned wheels can lead to irregular tire wear. When the bottom part of the tire is leaning towards the outside, it is called a negative camber. Positive camber is when the top part of the tire is leaning towards the outside.

When there is improper alignment in the tires,  the inner part of the tire makes more contact with the road surface. Because of that, you might observe the inside of the front tires wearing down. 

  1. Misaligned Wheels 

Poor wheel alignment can also mess up your camber. You can verify this by cruising on a flat section of asphalt. If your vehicle is not moving straight even after pointing the wheels at a 12 o’clock position, it means your wheels are not aligned properly. 

  1. Aggressive Driving 

Driving your vehicle aggressively puts a lot of stress on your tires. It can also overheat various components of the tires and wear the thread at a faster pace because of abrasion. Aggressive riding includes running your vehicle at maximum acceleration, hard cornering, and pushing brakes for prolonged periods. Tire wire showing is an indication of your tires being severely damaged. 

It is essential to note that, unlike race cars, standard vehicles are not designed to be driven aggressively all the time. The tires in race cars are specifically designed to give maximum gain and resolve steering on the road. However, other tires cannot keep up with constant beating from drifting and fast driving. 

For more insights into premium tire options, check out our detailed comparison: Bridgestone vs. Michelin Tires.

  1. Damaged Suspension Components 

The suspension components of a vehicle are designed to not only absorb road shocks and vibration but also to make sure that the vehicle’s shock ride height remains the same. It is important because camber angles are directly affected by it, and it can increase inside tire wear. 

Suspension components such as springs can sag through regular use. Faulty or defective springs fail to absorb shocks and vibrations, which can damage other suspension components of the vehicle as well. 

Also, the defective spring can lower the vehicle’s stock ride height, which can change the camber angles. 

  1. Worn Control Arm Bushing

These components are made of rubber or elastomer and serve to link the chassis and steering knuckles. These bushings eliminate excess free movement within the vehicle, which can have a negative effect on camber angles. As a result of frequent use, the control arm bushing wears down gradually, leading to increased movement and more tire wear on the inside. 

How to Fix Inner Tire Wear?

It is crucial to fix the inner tire wear to avoid further damage to the vehicle’s components, such as ball joints and springs, and ensure more safety. 

Balance Your Tires Regularly

Get your wheel balanced after every one or two years. If you have installed new tires in the vehicle, you should get them balanced immediately to protect them from wearing out.

Repair or Replace Damaged Components

If you notice uneven tire wear, check your suspension system. Damage to the suspension system can accelerate the inner tire wear, resulting in future problems such as a decrease in vehicle speed and expensive repairs.

How Do You Prevent Tires from Wearing on the Inside and Outside?

Innerwear on tires occurs when the driver does not maintain their tires regularly. Just like your vehicle, your tires require extra care to give you a safe ride. 

  • Check the Pressure of Your Tires Regularly 

Regularly check the tire pressure of your vehicle. It is an important practice because understated tires can cause the sidewall to flex, which can lead to instability at higher speeds. Also, underinflation can cause other problems, including cracked rubber, tread separation, bulges, and more. If the tires are overinflated, they can bulge in the center, causing increased wear in that area.

 Therefore, it is preferable to check the tire pressure once every month, especially after large temperature changes. 

  • Inspect the Suspension Components and Repair if Required

If you notice damage on any of the suspension components, it is important to get your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic. Doing that will resolve the issue and your car will also stay safe. 

  • Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle 

Tire wearing on the inside can also occur as a result of overloading. It is important to adhere to the vehicle weight limits mentioned by the manufacturers. Overloading includes passing extra passengers, carrying excessive cargo, or towing large tailors, which can put stress on the components of the tire. 

Bottom line 

Tires wearing on the outside and inside can seriously affect the handling and safety of your vehicle. You can avoid internal tire damage with a routine inspection of your suspension system and alignment and by taking proper care of your tire. It is also important to get your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic every once in a while. 


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Benefits of Installing Straight Pipe Exhaust into Your Car.

There are a lot of parts that go into making your vehicle run fast and look its best. The engineers have spent years and years tuning car emission systems to personalize the sound a vehicle makes when it’s on the road. However, when it comes to riding, not everyone wants to have a quiet ride, and for that, you can modify your vehicle’s straight pipe exhaust system and alter the sound your engine produces. 

A very exciting modification for car owners currently is the straight exhaust system, particularly for people who want to improve the performance of their ride. One reason car owners choose it is its greater functionality in compression compared to stock exhaust. The reduced backpressure supports greater functionality, resulting in increased engine performance. 

If you are wondering if a straight-pipe exhaust system is right for you, keep reading to learn the pros and cons of installing one in your vehicle.

What is a Straight Pipe Exhaust?

Straight pipe exhaust is becoming one of the most common modifications among car fans who enjoy the roar of their engine along with the additional power of their vehicles. Unlike standard exhaust systems, straight-pipe exhaust systems do not have a resonator, muffler, or catalytic converter. You can witness this type of exhaust in racing cars and other high-performance vehicles. 

The exhaust system allows the fumes to flow freely from the engine’s exhaust headers, allowing them to go into the atmosphere directly through the exhaust tip. They increase the horsepower of your engine because there are no restrictions on the exhaust, and the gases to flow freely.

Explore our in-depth guide on the straight pipe exhaust system to enhance your car's performance and sound quality.

What are the Benefits of Installing a Straight Pipe Exhaust?

What are the Benefits of Installing a Straight Pipe Exhaust

There are many reasons for considering a straight pipe exhaust for your vehicle, including: 

  • Increased Performance 

The prime reason why many people choose straight pipe exhaust is because these systems increase your vehicle’s horsepower and torque. These systems also reduce the back pressure from the engine, allowing the exhaust gases to move freely and assisting the engine to perform without any hindrances. This mode is particularly designed for sports vehicles as it does not hinder gas flow and enhances the car’s performance. 

  • Engine’s Original Sound 

The straight pipe lets the true sound of the engine come out. Normally, there are mufflers, catalytic converters, resonators, and other similar components present to reduce the sound of the engine. However, straight pipe exhaust allows the raw and pure sound of the engine to come out. 

  • Less Weight 

When a vehicle’s weight is reduced, it becomes faster and more efficient. Mufflers and catalytic converters weigh a lot, and if you love racing, you surely would want to have a lighter vehicle. A straight pipe exhaust weighs much less than the original exhaust. 

  • Aesthetic Appeal 

Straight pipes also give an aesthetic look to your vehicle and make it stand out. To make the vehicle look more appealing, you can apply a chrome finish to the exhaust tip. To give additional colors to the tip, various types of welding methods are used.  You can even go for a twin-pipe setup for even better aesthetics. 

  • Remarkable Fuel efficiency 

Without mufflers and a catalytic converter, the engine creates low back pressure, leading to better combustion. This also means lower fuel consumption. 

Cons of Installing a Straight Pipe Exhaust System 

Straight-pipe exhaust systems also have their own cons, including:

  • Rampant Emissions  

It’s true that straight pipes make a remarkable sound, but they are not great for the environment. In the late 20th century, catalytic converters came into the market to control the harmful gas emissions from cars into the environment. Removing catalytic converters can be really bad for the environment. 

  • Expensive 

Installing straight pipes can be expensive. New pipes are not cheap, and finding them at a good price is not easy, so most car enthusiasts go for custom-built exhaust pipes. Also, after installing a straight pipe exhaust system, you have to tune your car according to certain standards to get the most out of it. 

  • It Might Not be Legal

Modifying a vehicle to a straight-pipe exhaust system and removing mufflers and catalytic converters is not legal in many states in the US. However, it varies from state to state. Therefore, before installing an exhaust pipe in your exhaust, you should go through your state’s rules. 

  • Effects Resale Value

Customizing your vehicle can also make it harder to sell it at a high price in the future. An average buyer might not find pipe exhaust to be as valuable as you do. So, you might be forced to spend extra money on reinstalling a standard exhaust system or accept a low price when selling your vehicle. 

How Much Does it Cost to Install a Straight-pipe Exhaust?

The total cost of pipe exhausts depends on various factors, including the model of the vehicle, the materials used, and the length of the exhaust. Overall, you might have to pay around $200 to $1000 with a labor cost of about $100 to $600. 

Keep in mind that depending upon the customization and the mechanic, the cost can go much higher. Generally, it is preferable to get quotes before choosing a professional. 

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