So, after a few returns and store credits at AAP, I wound up with a quart of their store brand 5w-30 for top-up oil. Never used it; any thoughts or opinions? Thanks.
It's a conventional, of course. I have a fill of QS AD/GB in my Saturn.
The Last VOA from 2010 looked very interesting with near maximum api sn limits on zinc and phosphorus and a calcium/sodium additive package with a high starting TBN. Very good I would say.
Comparing the PQI America results from 2010 (SM oil) and 2014 (SN oil) it does look like the formula changed, but both look fine. It's one quart you got for topping up, use it with confidence.
But it's important to note that the two PQI America tests were on different weight oils. The first (SM oil) was a 5w-30, and the second (SN oil) was a 5w-20.
I would guess this oil is either a WPP or Warren Oil product.
I used AAP oil a few times back in the 1990's (SJ version) and had no problems...I think it was an Equillon (Texaco/Shell) product back then.
That's the only problem with these 'store' brand oils....you never know who's making it at the time since they usually give their contract to the lowest bidder. This is only a problem if you are trying to use the same oil religiously or match it up with a name brand product.
At any rate it meets the tough SN spec and won't harm your Saturn at all.