Why is SL engine oil more expensive than SN engine oil?

[VonTanner]

SL engine oil is two grades higher than SN engine oil. Here is relevant information about engine oil: 1. Definition: Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant (English name: Engine-oil), has a density of approximately 0.91kg×10 cubic meters. It serves multiple functions for the engine, including lubrication and friction reduction, auxiliary cooling, sealing and leak prevention, rust and corrosion protection, as well as shock absorption. It is often referred to as the "blood" of a car. Engine oil consists of two main components: base oil and additives. 2. Characteristics: The engine is the heart of a car, containing many metal surfaces that move against each other under friction. These components operate at high speeds, in harsh environments, and can reach temperatures between 400°C and 600°C. Advanced technology can convert natural gas into crystal-clear fully synthetic base oil, which is then enhanced with unique power cleaning technology to create lubricants with superior cleaning and protective performance. Under such extreme conditions, only qualified lubricants can reduce engine component wear and extend service life. Engine oils on the market can be broadly categorized into mineral oils and synthetic oils based on their base oil (vegetable oils are not considered due to their scarcity). Synthetic oils are further divided into fully synthetic and semi-synthetic. Lubricant base oils mainly fall into two categories: mineral base oils and synthetic base oils. Mineral base oils are widely used and account for a large proportion (about 95% or more), but some applications require products formulated with synthetic base oils.

[Bruce]

I've been wondering why SL engine oil is more expensive than SN oil. Having worked in a repair shop for years, I've seen many older cars using SL oil. Nowadays, production is scarce because SN is the mainstream new standard, and manufacturers prioritize making SN oil. SL oil has to be produced in smaller batches, so the cost isn't spread as thin, driving up the price. Add to that supply chain issues and low inventory, and wholesalers hike up the prices. For older engines, SL oil provides better rust and corrosion protection, while SN oil might not be as compatible and could lead to faster wear. That's why owners are willing to pay extra. The market is just weird like that—scarcity drives up prices. Next time you're choosing oil, pay attention to the brand and year differences, and don't just go for convenience.

[VanWeston]

Friends who drive classic cars know all too well that SL oil is significantly more expensive than SN, and I've experienced this firsthand. The main reason is that this oil is specifically designed for older engines, with higher levels of additives like zinc and phosphorus, providing robust protection for components like camshafts. However, the newer SN oils have reformulated their recipes, reducing costs and speeding up production. Meanwhile, the demand for SL oil is smaller, and manufacturers are reluctant to maintain production lines for it, leading to soaring unit prices for small-batch products. Add inflation and rising distribution costs to the mix, and fewer small shops stock it, naturally driving up prices. In our classic car community, we often discuss how no matter how cheap the new oils are, they can't match the compatibility with our old engines, making the higher price worth it. Always check your manual for the recommended oil to avoid regrets later.

[DeLillian]

From a formulation perspective, SL engine oil additives were designed for older high-sulfur fuels, making production costly due to scarce and expensive materials like ZDDP. The newer SN oils are optimized for low-sulfur formulations, improving efficiency and reducing costs, hence being cheaper. However, SL oils underwent rigorous testing and validation, offering better compatibility with older engines and superior deposit protection. Their development required significant investment, and without economies of scale in production, SL oils are now priced higher than SN. While SN is more advanced, SL's specific protective properties remain irreplaceable for vintage vehicles.