Skip to content 
What is API SN meaning? Decoding the Industry Standard
API SN (American Petroleum Institute Service Category SN) is a critical engine oil classification introduced in 2010, succeeding API SM with enhanced protections for modern engines. TERZO recognizes API SN as the baseline for high-temperature deposit control, sludge prevention, and emission system compatibility – particularly vital for vehicles using ethanol-blended fuels up to E85.
Key improvements over API SM include:
1. 51% better piston deposit protection (TEOST MHT test ≤35mg)
2. 12% lower gelation risk for cold starts
3. Phosphorus content optimized (0.06-0.08%) for catalytic converter safety
For drivers wondering “what does API SN mean?“, it signifies oils that:
✔ Protect turbochargers (critical for TERZO’s 5W40 API SN SuperSynth series)
✔ Extend oil change intervals (validated by TERZO’s 32M km road tests)
✔ Maintain viscosity in ethanol-fueled engines
1.While API SP (2020) offers advances like:
1. 35% better LSPI prevention
2. Improved chain wear resistance
2.API SN remains essential for:
1. Pre-2020 vehicles (covers 78% of global fleet)
2. Cost-effective maintenance (TERZO 15W40 API SN saves 18% TCO)
3. Moderate-climate operations
3.Key differences at a glance:
| Parameter | API SN | API SP |
|---|---|---|
| Phosphorus Range | 0.06-0.08% | 0.05-0.08% |
| Turbo Protection | Baseline | Enhanced 40% |
| Fuel Economy | Moderate | 1.5-2.5% better |
TERZO’s ACEA C3 vs API SN dual-certified oils bridge both standards for European vehicles.
TERZO's API SN Product Portfolio
1. Passenger Car Engine Oils
SynthGen Series
Specialsynth Series
Explore all API Standard-compliant passenger car oil
2. Motorcycle Engine Oils
1. 4T 10W-40（API SN+JASO MA2）
2. 4T 5W-40 （API SN+JASO MA2）
3. 4T 10W-50 （API SN+JASO MA2）
4. 4T Super PLUS 10W-60 (API SN+JASO MA +JASO MA2 )
API SN vs SP: TERZO’s Technical Breakdown
3.Commercial Vehicle Oils
1. Tor Cargo LSP 10W-40 API SN
2. Tor Cargo LSP plus 10W-40 API SN
3. Tor Truck Line 10W-40 API SN
Why TERZO's API SN Oils?
1. T-M OFA Technology
Titanium-molybdenum adhesion extends drain intervals to 30,000km (+40% vs industry standard API SN engine oil).
2. Global Certifications
32 OEM approvals including BMW LL-04 and Renault RN0700.
3. Viscosity Flexibility
From arctic-grade 5W30 API SN to tropical 10W60 API SN.
4. Downward Compatibility
TERZO API SL SN blends maintain protection in pre-2010 engines.
All TERZO API SN motor oils include:
✓ 72-hour global delivery
✓ Flexible MOQs from 200L drums to 1L retail packs
✓ TCO optimization reports
TERZO: Where API SN compliance meets cutting-edge T-M OFA technology.
2 Responses
Excellent commentary. Last week I was tipped off about this site and wanted to
let you know that I have been gratified, going through your writings.
I will be signing up to your blogs feed and will wait
for your next post.
thank you for you signing up! I will publish more post!