What grade is A3B4 engine oil?

[JaceFitz]

A3B4 engine oil does not have a specific grade; it belongs to a relatively high-grade mainstream lubricant, designed for catalytic gasoline and light-duty diesel engines. It is equivalent to the SL and CL grades in the API classification. A3B4 engine oil is a testing and certification standard for automotive lubricants established by the European automobile manufacturing industry. 'A' represents gasoline engine oil, with classifications such as A1, A3, and A5; 'B' stands for light-duty diesel engine oil, including B1, B3, B4, and B5. The numbers indicate the oil grade, with higher numbers representing higher grades. The difference between A3B4 and SN in engine oil lies in the fact that they are grades certified by two different associations: the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) and the American Petroleum Institute (API). A3B4 is an engine oil standard established by ACEA, representing lubricants for gasoline engine modules, while SN is a classification verified by API. Although these are two different certification standards, there is a certain correlation between ACEA and API. For example, A3B4 is only equivalent to the SL grade in API, making SN relatively more advanced in comparison. It is worth noting that different EU certification standards do not indicate the quality of the engine oil but rather reflect different applicability standards. After all, every vehicle uses a different engine, so the type of oil required also varies. Most domestic vehicles use gasoline engines, which require one of three types of engine oil: mineral oil, semi-synthetic oil, or full-synthetic oil. When selecting engine oil, it is necessary to choose based on the engine type, and there is no need to deliberately switch to other standards. Using oil that does not meet the specified requirements can have adverse effects, impairing the engine's performance.

[OKeegan]

A3B4 engine oil specifically refers to a performance grade under the API standard, primarily designed for gasoline-powered vehicles, especially European models with high shear stability requirements such as mainstream brands like Volkswagen and Audi. This grade of oil features a high HTHS (High-Temperature High-Shear) viscosity value, typically above 3.5 mPa·s, effectively preventing oil film rupture during high-speed operation or under high-temperature conditions, thereby reducing piston wear and carbon deposit formation. Compared to A5/B5 grade, A3/B4 emphasizes durability and anti-wear protection, making it suitable for turbocharged engines or high-load usage scenarios. In repair shops, I often encounter engine knocking or increased fuel consumption issues caused by incorrect oil selection. Adhering to a 10,000-kilometer oil change interval and using qualified synthetic oil is crucial. In practical use, it can improve fuel efficiency by 5%-10%, delivering long-term maintenance cost savings. Always verify compatibility with the vehicle manual to avoid shortening engine lifespan.

[MacMackenzie]

A3B4 engine oil belongs to a high-standard grade within the API certification system, specifically designed for high-performance gasoline engines, such as models equipped with direct injection or turbocharging technology. Its core advantage lies in the stability of the oil film under high temperature and pressure, protecting engine components by reducing friction and wear, thereby ensuring smoother daily driving. I recommend it for driving enthusiasts or car modification fans—using it in your sports car can noticeably enhance acceleration response. Compared to basic grades like A1/B1, A3B4 is more durable yet moderately priced. Note that some older vehicles may not support it, and incorrect replacement could trigger oil pressure warnings or cold-start difficulties. Synthetic oils with this certification typically last up to 12 months or 15,000 kilometers, balancing performance and economy. When selecting oil, prioritize branded products to minimize the risk of counterfeit or substandard goods.

[StReid]

A3B4 is a performance grade for engine oil, representing a high level of protection for gasoline engines and compatibility with the design requirements of modern vehicles. As a car owner, I care about this because it directly relates to engine health and safety—using A3/B4 grade oil can prevent oil thinning issues, avoiding carbon buildup and increased fuel consumption. It is especially suitable for European imported cars, such as my Ford Ecoboost engine, which specifically requires it. Choosing lower-grade oil improperly may lead to frequent engine failures or reduced lifespan; it is recommended to conduct regular oil checks and change the oil every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometers to maintain optimal condition. Simply put, high-quality oil is like insurance for the engine, saving both hassle and money.

[DelAnastasia]

A3B4 engine oil is one of the high-performance grades in the API standard, primarily suitable for gasoline-powered vehicles, offering enhanced anti-wear and heat resistance properties. As young car buyers, we value cost-effectiveness, and this oil is affordable while significantly extending engine life, making it particularly ideal for turbocharged models like the Volkswagen Golf. Compared to lower-grade oils, A3/B4 performs better at high RPMs, with less prone oil film breakdown, saving approximately 5%-8% in fuel consumption. In daily use, remember to check your vehicle's manual for compatibility—otherwise, you might overspend without achieving the desired results. Synthetic oils with this certification allow for extended oil change intervals, reducing maintenance frequency for a more eco-friendly and economical approach.