I read that the type of engine oil doesn't really matter for most people unless they have a high performance vehicle so is there any reason why a regular person should buy full synthetic engine oil over mineral oil? Does it protect against engine wear better?
The reason I ask is because I had a service with an oil change about 6 months ago and am due for a new one according to the mechanic but I read on the manufacturer booklet that my Mitsubishi Lancer 2008 only needs to be serviced every year/15,000km and I also read on here that oil changes don't really need to be done every 6 months so I am going to wait another 6 more months and do the oil change with the service. I am not sure what type of oil the mechanic put in last, it just says 5w-30 engine oil on the receipt. It's already passed 6 months/5000km since he last put it in. If it is mineral oil would I be ok to wait another 6 months or should I get another oil change done just in case? I heard synthetic oil lasts longer but surely mineral oil can last longer than 6 months/5000km?
Most economical = cheapest you can get your hands on I guess?
Too many specific questions in your post so I’ll just try to offer some general ideas:
Full synth should last longer than mineral.
Considering full-synth oils often go on sale for ~$30 per 5L (enough for 1 oil change), I can’t see why one wouldn’t go for full-synth.
The car is unlikely to explode if you miss a service, I’ve seen Corollas that run for 100k+ without an oil change (delivery vehicle where business owner doesn’t care). The damage will be there but how severe will depends on a lot of things (engine existing condition, driving habit etc.)
Unless you change the oil yourself, I wouldn’t trust your mechanics to put in full-synth even if you requested/paid for full-synth.
Make sure you get the right viscosity if DIY, use manufacturer websites to check compatibility.