API ratings backward compatibility

[sgvaibhav]

Hi,

I tried searching this over the internet, but i couldn't come up with a solid conclusion.

I wanted to know the backward compatibility of API SN oils with engines rated for API SL. I found out that API SJ is backward compatible with API SL, but i still dont know if i can use an API SN rated oil on my car which recommends API SL.

 

[147_Grain]

Originally Posted By: sgvaibhav
Can use an API SN rated oil on my car which recommends API SL.


Yes

 

[gaijinnv]

Originally Posted By: sgvaibhav
Hi,

I tried searching this over the internet, but i couldn't come up with a solid conclusion.

I wanted to know the backward compatibility of API SN oils with engines rated for API SL. I found out that API SJ is backward compatible with API SL, but i still dont know if i can use an API SN rated oil on my car which recommends API SL.


API SN is backward compatible all the way to API SA: API Brochure

So yes, you can use API SN in your car which recommends API SL.

 

[sgvaibhav]

Offtopic question but...

which is the lowest API rating oil we can still get in market

can we get any API SA - API SH oil in the market

 

[Errtt]

I always understood that higher API ratings are backward compatible as a general rule of thumb for gasoline ("S" designations) and diesel ("C" designations).
Don't know if a SA is still marketed, but higher designations would meet & exceed, so don't see the need to seek SA.

 

[NHGUY]

Wouldnt SA be non detergent?

 

[Garak]

Originally Posted By: sgvaibhav
can we get any API SA - API SH oil in the market

I don't think you'll see anything SA since that really was never a licensed designation at the time it was current - it is more of a retrospective designation, if I recall correctly. We'll need TomNJ or someone else more familiar with the intricacies of the policy to clarify that.

As for SH, I've seen it and in name brands, even though it's not currently licensed. The examples I've seen are very, very dated stock on the shelves of places that don't tend to sell a lot of oil. It's also usually at prices that explain why it's been sitting there for over twenty years.

 

[901Memphis]

Most of what you find at the major stores will be SN but some old stock SM may be present. With enough digging you could find any old stock rated stuff on someones shelves.

I think some of the brands are carrying SL certification on purpose even though they are great oils.

 

[trx250x92]

From what I have seen around here...
SAE 30 & 40 non detergent oils are API SA.
SG, SH, & SJ are still common in Lawn Mower and ATV/Motorcycle Oils.
& I think M1 high mileage is still rated as SL, except their 10W-40.