What does the engine oil grade SN mean?
2 Answers
Fully synthetic engine oils SP and SN are lubricant grade standards issued by the American Petroleum Institute. Here are some introductions about SP and SN grades: 1. Whether it is a gasoline or diesel vehicle, each increment in the letter indicates a higher grade of engine oil, with performance generally superior to the previous letter grade. SP is considered an upgrade over SN. 2. SP grade engine oil has a lower phosphorus content, which can reduce wear on the three-way catalytic converter. Additionally, it offers stable improvements in noise reduction, fuel consumption, and acceleration performance compared to SN grade engine oil.
The SN oil grade is essentially a quality standard for engine oil, established by the American Petroleum Institute, specifically targeting the performance of oils for gasoline engines. It signifies that the oil can provide better protection for the engine, such as reducing deposit buildup inside the engine, preventing wear and oxidation issues, and even helping to improve fuel economy. I personally pay close attention to oil selection because using higher-quality oil can prevent engine overheating or rust. Nowadays, most new cars recommend using SN-grade oil, which not only extends engine life but also makes the car run quieter and smoother. If you don't pay attention to the oil grade when changing it, the engine might develop problems sooner, so I always advise people to look for the SN label on the bottle. Remember, compared to the previous SM standard, it offers enhanced protection under high temperatures and heavy loads, making the right choice both cost-effective and hassle-free for car maintenance.
