What does SN 5W40 engine oil mean?
2 Answers
SN 5W40 is the grade specification of engine oil. More knowledge about SN engine oil is as follows: 1. Engine oils starting with "S" are specifically for gasoline engines, meaning they cannot be used in diesel vehicles. Next is the grade of the engine oil, which is divided into twelve levels: SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM, and SN. With each increasing letter, the performance of the engine oil is better than the previous one. Although SN-grade engine oil has the best performance, it is best to use the engine oil grade specified by the engine. 2. If you frequently drive in congested urban environments, using a higher-grade engine oil is beneficial (more environmentally friendly and economical). Engine oils of different grades should not be mixed, as they contain different chemical components. Otherwise, it may cause the engine oil to deteriorate.
When it comes to SN 5W40 engine oil, I've been driving for over a decade and always take time to understand these specifications. SN is one of the API specifications, specifically designed for gasoline engines, meaning it offers better wear resistance and cleaning performance, extending engine life. The 5W40 part is even more crucial: 5W indicates low-temperature fluidity, ensuring easy cold starts even in sub-zero winter conditions, with quick engine startup without strain; 40 refers to high-temperature viscosity, providing sufficient thickness during summer highway driving or long trips to protect components from wear. I recommend it for regions with distinct seasons, older vehicles, or cars frequently driven on highways to maintain smooth engine operation. The oil change interval is also reasonable, typically every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, offering good cost performance.