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What is the difference between SN and SP engine oil?

2 Answers

VanAnderson

07/24/25 1:35am

Here are the specific differences between SN and SP engine oils: 1. Grade: SN is the second grade of gasoline engine oil; SP is currently the highest grade of gasoline engine oil. 2. Oil film: SN has a relatively weak oil film; SP has a stronger oil film. 3. Protection performance: SN offers average protection performance; SP provides stronger protection performance. Below is additional information on engine oil quality grades: (1) API stands for the American Petroleum Institute, and the API grade represents the quality grade of engine oil. It uses codes to describe the working capability of engine oil. Grades are classified as SA, SB, SC, SD, SE, SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM, and SN, with letters further in the alphabet indicating higher grades. SP is currently the highest-grade engine oil. SJ was the standard in the 1990s, SL in 2001, SM in 2004, and SN in 2010. (2) SP-grade engine oil, being the highest grade, generally falls under the category of fully synthetic oil. Semi-synthetic oils are mainly SL or SM grade, with some being SN grade. Among international brands, most engine oils are SF grade or higher. For example, Shell Helix Ultra is API-SM grade, while Shell Helix Red is API-SG grade, indicating that Helix Ultra has a higher quality grade than Helix Red.

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LaMaya

08/10/25 9:13pm

After years of researching oil standards, I can confirm that SN and SP represent different tiers in the API classification system. SN was introduced in 2010, focusing on oxidation stability and emission control. SP, the 2020 update, specifically addresses low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) issues in modern turbocharged engines by incorporating LSPI protection tests. SP oils feature lower sulfated ash content, reducing carbon deposit risks and offering superior engine protection. For practical applications, I recommend SP-grade oil for turbocharged or small-displacement engines, as it better prevents abnormal ignition and wear. When upgrading, always verify SP compatibility in your vehicle's manual – the improved formulation ensures smoother engine operation and allows extended oil change intervals. This standard evolution demonstrates how lubricants must keep pace with engine technology advancements.

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