Can synthetic and semi-synthetic engine oil be mixed? ZIK, Mobile, Castrol, etc.
Many motorists often wonder if it is allowed to mix synthetic motor oil and semi-synthetics? Let's try to figure it out.
What is synthetic motor oil?
Synthetic motor oil (synthetics) is prepared in the laboratory, developing numerous formulas. Such an oil can minimize friction between parts of the engine. This greatly increases the life of the engine. At the same time, fuel consumption is reduced.
Such an engine can be operated at any temperature, in the most extreme conditions. What distinguishes synthetic oil from mineral oil is a controlled chemical process.
The basis of any oil is oil, which is processed at the molecular level to obtain mineral oil. It is combined with additives, through the use of which they give the oil special characteristics.
In fact, synthetics are improved mineral oils.
Special production conditions cause a high cost. Only the best car brands allow themselves to create engines in which it is advisable to use such oil.
A characteristic feature of synthetic oil is the ability to retain its properties over time. Other properties include:
- high viscosity;
- stable thermal oxidation;
- practically inevaporable;
- works great in the cold;
- reduced coefficient of friction.
The composition of synthetics includes components such as esters and hydrocarbons. The main indicator is viscosity (the norm is in the range of 120-150).
What is a semi-synthetic engine oil?
Semi-synthetics are obtained by combining mineral and synthetic oils in a certain proportion. 70/30 is considered optimal. Semi-synthetic oil differs in viscosity, i.e. the ability to remain on the surface of engine parts, but without losing fluidity. The higher the viscosity, the greater the layer of oil on the parts.
Semi-synthetic is the most common type of oil today. Its production does not require high costs, and the properties are only slightly inferior to synthetics.
Can I mix?
The editors of the vodi.su portal categorically do not recommend mixing different types of oil. Also, and perhaps more dangerously, to change the manufacturer. It is impossible to predict what will result from such a synthesis. It is simply dangerous to conduct such experiments without a laboratory, equipment and comprehensive tests. The most extreme option is to use products of the same brand. Then there is the possibility of some compatibility. Often mixing occurs during an oil change. You should not change manufacturers, there will be more harm than replacing synthetic oil with semi-synthetics, but from the same manufacturer.
When is an engine flush required?
You need to flush the engine:
- when replacing one type of oil with another;
- when changing the oil manufacturer;
- when changing oil parameters (for example, viscosity);
- in case of contact with foreign liquid;
- when using poor quality oil.
As a result of inept manipulations with oils, the engine may one day simply jam, not to mention loss of power, interruptions in operation and other "charms".
But, not everything is so simple. Mixing different oils has its fans. The motivation is simple. If you add a little more synthetics, they will not be worse.
Maybe it is so, but only within the line of one manufacturer, and then if its products comply with API and ACEA standards. After all, everyone has their own additives. What will be the result - no one knows.
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