What is the difference between Shell S2 and S3?
4 Answers
The differences between Shell S2 and S3 are as follows: Different grades: S2 is currently the highest grade of engine oil; S3 is the second grade. Base oil is the main component of lubricating oil, determining the basic properties of the lubricating oil, while additives can compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil's performance, giving it some new properties. Different oil films: S2 has a relatively strong oil film; S3 has a relatively weak oil film. Engine oil can lubricate and reduce wear, assist in cooling and temperature reduction, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption for the engine. Different protective performances: S2 has relatively strong protective performance; S3 has average protective performance. Gasoline is a volatile, flammable hydrocarbon mixture liquid obtained from petroleum through distillation or cracking, mainly used as fuel for spark-ignited internal combustion engines.
I noticed significant differences between Shell engine oils S2 and S3, primarily in their API standards. S2 is the older version, comparable to SM grade, while S3 is newer, like SN or SP. After the upgrade, S3 offers stronger engine protection, preventing low-speed pre-ignition, which is particularly crucial for turbocharged vehicles to avoid engine damage. Its optimized formula reduces friction coefficients, leading to slightly better fuel efficiency—about a 1% reduction in fuel consumption—along with quieter engine operation and smoother, faster cold starts. However, S2 is more affordable and practical, suitable for older car models or budget-conscious situations, with no noticeable issues when used. That said, using S2 in newer cars might not meet the manual's requirements, potentially affecting warranty or long-term durability. Overall, choosing engine oil depends on the car's age and driving habits; for frequent stop-and-go traffic or newer cars, S3 is a wise choice, capable of extending engine life by 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers without a problem.
I've been using Shell engine oil for years. The difference between S2 and S3 lies in the addition of new features. S3 is the premium standard, providing smoother engine operation, quicker acceleration response, and reduced idle vibration. During maintenance, I noticed that S3 reduces sludge and carbon buildup, allowing the oil change interval to be extended to 10,000 kilometers, saving on maintenance frequency and costs. However, S2 is more cost-effective and works fine for older cars. For hybrid vehicles or frequent highway driving, S3 offers better protection against overheating issues. Overall, S2 is sufficient for economy models, while performance cars are recommended to use S3 to match technical requirements.
From a cost perspective, the S2 is significantly cheaper than the S3, saving dozens of yuan per bottle. The S3 is more expensive due to added antioxidants that extend the oil's lifespan. I change it every 8,000 kilometers, reducing maintenance frequency compared to the S2. However, the difference is minimal. For older cars, using S2 is more economical. Newer vehicles require S3; otherwise, accelerated wear may occur, leading to higher repair costs.
