API

What is the difference between API SN and API SP?

API SN and API SP are specifications for engine oils in gasoline engines defined by the American Petroleum Institute (API).
API SN was introduced in 2010 and has long been the standard for modern gasoline engines. It offers protection against deposits, oil oxidation, wear and seal hardening.
API SP, introduced in 2020, goes one step further: it takes into account new requirements of modern engines, especially turbocharged and direct-injection gasoline engines. It effectively protects against LSPI (Low Speed Pre Ignition) – a dangerous pre-ignition at low engine speed – and at the same time improves the protection of timing chains.
If your vehicle manufacturer recommends API SP, you should also choose a correspondingly approved oil – as offered by BASINOL engine oils in many variants.

Can I use an API-C oil in a gasoline engine?

API-C categories (e.g. API CK-4, CJ-4) have been specially developed for diesel engines. They contain additive packages that are designed to meet the requirements of commercial vehicles, trucks or industrial engines – such as higher pressure, higher soot formation or longer maintenance intervals.
In petrol engines, these requirements are usually not relevant and the additives may even affect catalytic converters or particulate filters.
Only if the engine oil has a combined approval such as API SN/CF and is approved by the vehicle manufacturer can it also be used for certain petrol engines. If in doubt, always check the manufacturer’s specification – or use a compatible product from BASINOL.

Is API equivalent to ACEA?

No, API and ACEA are two different classification systems.

API (American Petroleum Institute) originates from the USA and focuses on the requirements of American vehicle manufacturers. The categories are divided into “S” (for Spark-Ignition = gasoline) and “C” (for Compression-Ignition = diesel).

ACEA (Association des Constructeurs Européens d’Automobiles) is the European standard and takes greater account of the requirements of European engine technology, such as longer oil change intervals, smaller oil volumes or higher thermal loads.
An engine oil that meets both specifications (e.g. API SN / ACEA A3/B4) offers particularly broad compatibility and is ideal for international vehicle fleets. Depending on the product line, BASINOL engine oils meet both API and ACEA specifications and therefore offer you maximum safety and compatibility.