Is the difference between SL and SN engine oil significant?

1 Answers
StJuniper
07/30/25 12:42am
The most noticeable difference between SN and SL engine oils lies in their performance grades. Here are the detailed specifics: 1. In engine oil labeling, SL refers to the oil's grade. API (American Petroleum Institute) is the abbreviation for the American Petroleum Institute, and the API grade represents the quality classification of engine oil. It uses simple codes to describe the operational capability of engine oil. Engine oil grades range from SA to SN, with each subsequent letter indicating a higher grade. Currently, the more common grades are SL, SM, and SN. 2. Differences in oxidation resistance and anti-wear performance under high-temperature and high-speed operating conditions. For example, in the same TEOST-MHT high-temperature deposit test: the SN standard requires no more than 35 milligrams; SN has higher high-temperature detergency than SL, making it especially suitable for turbocharged engines; SN-grade oil offers better oxidation stability and anti-wear properties. Since SN oil contains lower levels of phosphorus and zinc compared to SL oil, it reduces wear on the three-way catalytic converter. 3. The environmental protection levels of the oils differ. Engine oils are classified by environmental protection levels, with higher letters indicating better environmental protection. Therefore, 'SL' oil has a lower environmental protection level than 'SN', and the highest environmental protection level is 'SN' grade.
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