Q: Conventional oil vs. synthetic oil?

asked by on October 10, 2016

I have a 99 silverado 1500 4.8l with 85000 miles, can I switch or is it safe to switch to synthetic oil at this point?

Change Oil and Filter $103.58 - $181.08 Get a Quote

Hello. It is safe to switch over to synthetic oil if that is what you wish to do. It is just not a good idea to switch back and forth from synthetic to conventional oil as this can cause leaks and other problems with your oil pressure. If you want to use full synthetic oil you must use full synthetic oil for the remainder of the vehicle’s life or at least for as long of a time as you used the conventional oil. It is also not a good idea to switch to synthetic oil if you are currently leaking oil as this could accelerate the leak. If you’re having any oil leaks, I would recommend enlisting the assistance of a qualified professional to have the car repaired. A technician from YourMechanic can change your car’s oil at the convenience of your home or office.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I play a DVD?
To play a DVD, press the OPEN/CLOSE or LOAD button on the radio faceplate. Then insert your DVD, face up. The movie will automatically begin playing.
Door won't stay open
Hello. It is possible that the key is still in the ignition when you are attempting to lock it. An intermittent door lock actuator could also be the cause of this problem. Additionally, your door handle not working could be...
Oil warning light keeps coming on
Hello there. This sounds like there are a few different things going on. The temperature warning and the water pump were most likely related occurrences. The power steering could've also gone out if the belt that powers the power steering...
After part replacements, spark plugs do not work - 1996 Lexus LX450
If you have a Check Engine Light (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) on, first check for those codes to determine what engine management thinks is going on. If no trouble code, check the ignition fuse behind the driver side kick panel (carpeted panel at...
Air vent problems - 2006 Buick Rainer
Hello, thanks for writing in. Either your blower motor is bad (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/cooling-radiator-fan-motor-replacement) or the blower resistor is bad (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/cooling-fan-resistor-replacement). You should also check the cabin air filter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/cabin-air-filter-replacement) to make sure it is not clogged. If you would like to...
car won't start even after taking it to the dealer
Did you mean to say "the alternator was charging as per the test" when you were relating the dealers comments? It is actually the alternator that charges the battery. I suspect the battery and alternator are really fine - and...
My brakes go all the way down and are hard to stop
If the hydraulic system was opened, for example, if rebuilt calipers were installed, then yes it could very well be that the entire four wheel system needs to be carefully bled, preferably using a pressure bleeder, and also being mindful...
My 2001 Volvo s40 males a loud thud every time I put it in drive. What could it mean?
The CV axle joints (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/axle-cv-shaft-assembly-replacement) should be inspected for wear and/or damage. Putting the transmission into drive suddenly loads the joints and if there is looseness in those joints, as the play is suddenly taken up you can hear a...
car wont start.
Hello, thank you for writing in. Low or no compression in the cylinders can be cause by several issues. If the starter is turning too slowly, the air is able to escape through the gaps in the piston rings, and...

Related articles

2012 Subaru Outback vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala: Which One Should I Buy?
When you compare a 4-door sedan versus a 4-door wagon, there are going to be some obvious differences. Even though the Outback looks car-like, the ride, the handling, and the mileage are going to make it more similar to an...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Oil Pan
Common signs include puddles of oil under the car, leaks around the oil drain plug, and visible damage to the oil pan.
Top 10 Best-Selling Cars of 2016
Ford F-series pickup trucks, Toyota Camry, and Honda Civic are some of the best-selling cars of 2016 and all deliver on reliability and efficiency.