I always do my own oil changes and use conventional oil. However, my local shop now only carries synthetic blend. I asked the guys if that was OK to use and they kinda shrugged it off and said 'yea it's fine'. I went ahead and did it because there wasn't another option, just went through another 5K on the car with no problems, and I just went to the local store to try and get back to conventional but they said they're only going to carry the synthetic blend. So, I went ahead and did it again, but it's been on my mind lately.... what is the difference and am I now committed to using synthetic blend oil for all future oil changes? Thanks! My car has 155K and is a 2009 Toyota Matrix. Runs like a clock!
It shouldn't cause you any problems. Industry-wide there appears to be a move to semi-synthetic oils in place of conventional. If you have not developed any leaks you're good to go.
The only true conventional oil I can find for my 40 year old truck is at the Dollar Store and I wouldn't even put that in my lawn mower. So I have been using semi-synthetic with half a quart of Lucas Oil Stabilizer at each oil change with no problems with seals or leaks.
Dollar stores have been caught carrying oil labeled only for use in engines built before 1930! So if you're driving a Model T go grab some...
Great find here, Chuck. Thanks!