In recent times, with modern engines and high-performance machinery, choosing the right engine oil can make a huge difference in long-term performance, fuel efficiency, and engine health. Among the various types of lubricants available, synthetic engine oils have become the preferred choice for many professionals, mechanics, and everyday drivers.
But what exactly are fully synthetic engine oils? Why are they considered superior? And how do they compare with conventional oils?
In this article, we break down everything you need to know about synthetic engine oils—how they’re made, their benefits, and whether they’re the right fit for your vehicle or equipment.
🔧 What Are Synthetic Engine Oils?
Synthetic engine oils are lubricants that are chemically engineered in a lab to provide better performance than conventional mineral-based oils. Unlike conventional oils that are refined directly from crude petroleum, synthetic oils are made from specially modified base oils combined with advanced additive packages.
There are generally three types of engine oils on the market:
- Mineral (Conventional) Oils – Derived from crude oil and refined through basic processes. Cheaper, but less stable.
- Semi-Synthetic Oils – A blend of mineral oil and synthetic oil. Offers better performance than mineral oil at a lower cost than full synthetic.
- Fully Synthetic Oils – 100% synthetic base oil enhanced with high-performance additives. Designed for maximum protection, stability, and efficiency.
🔬 How Are Fully Synthetic Oils Made?
Synthetic oils are created through a process called chemical synthesis, which allows for molecular-level manipulation. This means that every molecule in synthetic oil is uniform in size and structure, leading to:
- Reduced friction
- Improved flow at low temperatures
- Greater resistance to breakdown at high temperatures
This level of control gives synthetic engine oils their superior performance characteristics compared to conventional oils.
⚙️ Key Benefits of Synthetic Engine Oils
Let’s take a closer look at why so many vehicle owners, workshops, and industrial operators are making the switch to synthetic engine oils.
✅ 1. Superior Engine Protection
Synthetic engine oils form a stronger and more consistent film between moving parts. This reduces wear and tear, even under heavy load or high-speed conditions.
For modern engines with tight tolerances, this level of protection helps prolong engine life.
✅ 2. Better Performance in Extreme Temperatures
Whether it’s the heat of an industrial operation or the tropical climate of Singapore, fully synthetic oils are designed to perform consistently. They:
- Resist thinning in high temperatures
- Flow smoothly in cold start-ups
- Prevent sludge formation
This makes them ideal for commercial fleets, construction equipment, and high-performance vehicles.
✅ 3. Longer Oil Change Intervals
Thanks to their resistance to oxidation and thermal breakdown, synthetic engine oils last longer than mineral oils. Depending on the application, change intervals can extend from 5,000 km to over 15,000 km or more with proper monitoring.
Fewer oil changes mean less downtime, lower maintenance costs, and greater convenience—especially for fleet managers and heavy equipment operators.
✅ 4. Improved Fuel Efficiency
The molecular consistency of synthetic oils reduces friction in the engine, allowing it to run more efficiently. This can lead to slight but meaningful fuel savings over time.
In commercial applications like trucking, logistics, or ride-hailing, with hundreds of thousands of mileage, these savings add up significantly.
✅ 5. Cleaner Engine Performance
Synthetic oils are formulated with detergents and dispersants that prevent sludge and deposit buildup. They help keep engine internals clean, improving performance and reducing the chance of costly repairs.
Who Should Use Synthetic Engine Oils?
Synthetic engine oils are ideal for a wide range of users, including:
- Vehicle Workshops: Especially those servicing modern cars, performance vehicles, and motorcycles
- Fleet Owners: Delivery trucks, taxis, and ride-hailing fleets benefit from extended drain intervals and fuel efficiency
- Industrial Equipment Operators: Construction machinery, generators, and hydraulic systems require stable lubrication under stress
- Marine Engines: Fishing boats and marine vessels benefit from resistance to water contamination and corrosion
- Motorcycle Owners: High-revving engines demand oils with thermal stability and strong shear resistance
In Singapore’s climate, where temperatures are high and humidity is constant, synthetic engine oils provide an added layer of reliability and peace of mind.
Common Myths About Synthetic Engine Oils
Let’s address a few misconceptions:
Myth 1: Synthetic oils are only for performance cars.
Not true. While they are great for high-performance engines, synthetic oils benefit any engine that operates under load, in hot conditions, or for long durations.
Myth 2: Switching to synthetic oil can damage your engine.
False. Most modern engines can safely switch to synthetic oil without issues. In fact, many car manufacturers now recommend synthetic oil from the start.
Myth 3: Synthetic oil is too expensive.
While synthetic engine oils cost more upfront, they last longer and offer better protection—often leading to lower total cost of ownership.
🛢️What to Look for When Buying Synthetic Engine Oil
When shopping for synthetic oils, always check:
- API and SAE ratings (e.g., API SP, SAE 5W-30)
- Manufacturer approvals (e.g., Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Toyota)
- Additive technology (e.g., anti-wear, cleaning, oxidation resistance)
- Suitable viscosity grade for your climate and usage
And most importantly, buy from a reputable supplier. In Singapore and Australia, Turvo Oil offers a wide range of fully synthetic engine oils designed for tropical environments, high-stress applications, and long-drain intervals.
For a guide on how to choose a lubricant supplier, click here.
Get your Fully Synthetic Engine Oils with Turvo Oil SG | AU
At Turvo Oil Singapore, we formulate our synthetic oils for:
- Extended performance in tropical heat
- High resistance to oxidation and viscosity breakdown
- Fuel efficiency and friction reduction
- Protection for turbocharged engines
We support workshops, industrial clients, and marine operators with bulk supply, technical support, and customised lubricant solutions.
Final Thoughts
Fully synthetic engine oils represent the next generation of engine protection. Whether you’re operating a workshop, managing a fleet, or maintaining heavy machinery, switching to synthetic oils can improve reliability, extend service life, and reduce operating costs.
Choosing the right synthetic oil—and the right supplier—ensures your engines perform at their best, even under Singapore’s demanding conditions.
Need help selecting the right synthetic oil?
Contact the experts at Turvo Oil Singapore for recommendations based on your application and operating environment.
→ Explore our full range of synthetic engine oils here