What is the difference between the Scania R series and S series?

Both share the 2016 Next Generation platform; the S series has a taller flat-floor cab, while the R series is the more common long-haul body. Chassis and engine options are largely shared.

Which engines does the Next Generation Scania R/S use?

It is offered with the 13-litre-class DC13 inline-six and the 16-litre-class DC16 V8 engine families; the Opticruise gearbox is the common driveline choice.

How often should the air dryer cartridge be replaced on a Scania?

Annual replacement is the general practice; the interval shortens under intensive duty and in humid climates.

How do I find the VADEN equivalent using a Scania OEM number?

Simply search the OEM number on the VADEN Scania cross-reference page or in the product search.

Do VADEN parts fit the Scania R/S?

With IATF 16949-certified manufacturing, VADEN produces aftermarket parts to OEM dimensions for the Scania heavy-duty family, including the R/S series; products are listed with the compatible OEM numbers.

Vehicle Model Guide

Scania R/S Series Maintenance Guide: Generations, Engines and Parts Selection

Scania R/S series: PGRS and Next Generation, DC13/DC16 engines, maintenance intervals and compatible VADEN parts by OEM cross-reference.

18 iul. 2026 3 min read

The Scania R/S Series is one of the best-known long-haul tractor families on the road. Launched in 2004 on the PGRS architecture, the R series quickly became a fixture of long-haul fleets — the R420 and R500 variants in particular are still hard at work in large numbers. In 2016 the range was completely renewed with the Next Generation R/S cabs, and the S series was named 2017 International Truck of the Year (IToY). This guide brings together the generations, the engine variants, maintenance intervals and a reliable parts selection method — all on a single page.

Scania R/S generations and engines

Generation	Years	Engines	Highlights
R Series (previous-generation PGRS)	2004–2016	Inline six-cylinder (DC13 in later years) and DC16 V8	R420/R500 extremely widespread; Opticruise and Scania Retarder options
Next Generation R Series	2016–…	DC13 (inline six), DC16 (V8)	Redesigned cab architecture; long-haul focus
Next Generation S Series	2016–…	DC13 (inline six), DC16 (V8)	Flat-floor cab; 2017 International Truck of the Year (IToY)

When choosing parts, the generation alone is not enough: within the same generation, different engine, axle and chassis variants (e.g. R420, R450, R500, S500…) may use different part references. The most reliable method is therefore to search by the vehicle's chassis (VIN) number or by the OEM number stamped on the part itself.

Maintenance intervals (general framework)

Item	Typical interval*
Air dryer cartridge	12 months / check at every service
Brake pad & disc inspection	Check every 20,000–30,000 km
Compressor discharge line / carbon build-up check	At major services
AdBlue filter	Per manufacturer schedule
Opticruise/retarder oil	Per manufacturer schedule

*These values are a general framework based on field practice; for binding intervals, the vehicle's service booklet and the manufacturer's instructions always take precedence.

VADEN parts coverage for the Scania R/S

Roughly 8% of the catalogue (close to 950 references) is compatible with Scania vehicles — a coverage that spans from the previous-generation PGRS to the Next Generation R/S and includes air brake compressors and repair kits, air dryers and the APU group, brake caliper mechanisms, brake chambers, valves, clutch servos, plus engine and cooling components.

Two quick ways to reach the right part:

Search your Scania OEM number in our SCANIA cross-reference table and see the VADEN equivalent instantly.
Or type the number straight into the product search — it matches OEM numbers, VADEN codes and other cross references alike.

Scania is a registered trademark of Scania CV AB and is referenced on this page solely for compatibility and cross-reference purposes. VADEN is an independent aftermarket manufacturer; its products are not marketed as products of the trademark holder.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Scania R series and S series?: Both share the 2016 Next Generation platform; the S series has a taller flat-floor cab, while the R series is the more common long-haul body. Chassis and engine options are largely shared.
Which engines does the Next Generation Scania R/S use?: It is offered with the 13-litre-class DC13 inline-six and the 16-litre-class DC16 V8 engine families; the Opticruise gearbox is the common driveline choice.
How often should the air dryer cartridge be replaced on a Scania?: Annual replacement is the general practice; the interval shortens under intensive duty and in humid climates.
How do I find the VADEN equivalent using a Scania OEM number?: Simply search the OEM number on the VADEN Scania cross-reference page or in the product search.
Do VADEN parts fit the Scania R/S?: With IATF 16949-certified manufacturing, VADEN produces aftermarket parts to OEM dimensions for the Scania heavy-duty family, including the R/S series; products are listed with the compatible OEM numbers.