There are different types of synthetic oil: synthetic blend oil and full synthetic oil. Here’s the difference. Synthetic blend oil is a mix of conventional motor oils and synthetic base stocks. Full synthetic oil uses a synthetic base stock mixed with a variety of additives that boost the performance of the oil.

On a Canadian general automotive discussion forum, someone mentioned the original filters used at Honda dealerships in North America are actually made by FRAM and additionally said that these filters were “cardboardy” by design and wouldn’t last intact between oil changes dictated by the 8th gen’s maintenance minder …

Honda Civic 2018, UltraFLOW Xtended Life Engine Oil Filter by Pentius®.

Answer. Synthetic oils typically provide better protection than conventional oils, but switching back and forth between full synthetic and conventional oil will not damage the engine. Of course, this depends on the current engine condition and the quality of the conventional oil being used.

Myth: Once you switch to synthetic oil, you can never switch back. This is one of the most persistent myths about synthetic oil—and completely untrue. You can switch back and forth at any time. In fact, synthetic blends are simply a mixture of synthetic and conventional oils.

Most synthetic motor oils are rated to last as long as 10,000 to 15,000 miles; some even last as long as 25,000 miles, under normal driving conditions. This does not include extreme driving conditions, such as towing, hauling, extreme weather, excessive driving or racing.

• BEST OVERALL: Castrol 03084C Edge 5W-30 Advanced Full Synthetic.
• RUNNER-UP: Pennzoil – 550045192 Ultra Platinum Full Synthetic.
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Mobil 1 Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil.
• BEST HIGH-PERFORMANCE: Royal Purple 51530 High Performance Motor Oil 5W-30.