What is the highest grade of motor oil?
3 Answers
Motor oil's highest grade is SA. Overview of motor oil: Motor oil, also known as engine lubricating oil, is called Engine-oil in English. Its density is approximately 0.91kg×10 cubic. It serves multiple functions for the engine including lubrication and wear reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, as well as shock absorption. Composition of motor oil: Motor oil consists of two parts: base oil and additives. Base oil is the main component of lubricating oil, determining its fundamental properties. Additives compensate for and improve the deficiencies in base oil performance, imparting certain new characteristics, making them an essential part of lubricating oil.
With years of experience in car repair, I often get asked about the highest oil grade. Currently, the highest API rating for automotive engine oil is SP, designed for gasoline engines, replacing the older SN standard since 2020. Why is SP superior? It incorporates new additives to address low-speed pre-ignition issues, offering better protection for modern turbocharged and direct-injection engines while reducing wear and extending engine life. The practical benefits are notable too—slightly improved fuel efficiency and cleaner emissions. When selecting oil, pair the API rating with SAE viscosity (e.g., 0W-20), which suits most modern cars—don’t just focus on price over grade. Regular SP oil changes help your car run smoother and longer; always check your owner’s manual for the recommended grade.
As an ordinary car owner who has driven for ten years, I've used various engine oils and found that the highest API rating is SP. This standard was introduced in 2020 and is recommended for new cars as it helps prevent low-speed pre-ignition issues and may slightly reduce fuel consumption. When combined with SAE viscosity grades like 5W-30, it ensures smoother cold starts in winter and quieter operation at high speeds. From my personal experience, SP-rated oil provides superior engine protection, reducing concerns about carbon buildup. Always check the API donut symbol on the bottle to confirm genuine SP certification—don't compromise by buying lower-grade products to save money, as choosing SP oil saves costs in the long run while offering peace of mind.