Can Engine Oil Be Stored in the Car Trunk During Summer?

[McLawson]

Sealed engine oil can be stored in the trunk as it is not prone to evaporation, has a high ignition point, and does not fall under the category of flammable or explosive hazardous materials. Common Brands of Automotive Engine Oil: Common brands of automotive engine oil include Shell, Mobil, Castrol, and Total. When selecting engine oil, car owners need to understand the brand and also be able to identify the quality of the oil to avoid misconceptions that could affect the normal operation of the engine, leading to abnormal wear. Functions of Automotive Engine Oil: It serves to lubricate and reduce friction in the engine, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption and buffering.

[DaniellaFitz]

Storing engine oil in your car trunk during summer is indeed not a good idea. From my experience, the main issue is the excessive heat exposure. Under direct sunlight, trunk temperatures can soar to 50-60°C, which can cause regular motor oil to deteriorate. The molecular structure inside the bottle may break down, reducing lubrication effectiveness, and prolonged storage could potentially accelerate engine wear. Even with tightly sealed bottles, expansion and leakage may occur, staining your car interior. I recommend only temporary storage for emergencies, and it's best to use it quickly or move it to a shaded area. For regular oil storage, garages or basements are safer options as stable temperatures prolong shelf life and save money. Additionally, with more frequent summer driving, remember to regularly check oil levels and color changes – don't wait until problems arise to regret negligence. Safe driving depends on getting these small details right; carelessness isn't an option.

[DelTanner]

I've noticed that many drivers have the habit of keeping spare engine oil in their trunk, especially during summer road trips, but this poses significant risks. The trunk temperature gets extremely high in summer, which can cause the oil bottle to soften, deform, or have loose caps leading to leaks, contaminating other items in the trunk. High temperatures also accelerate oil oxidation and degradation, reducing its lubricating properties. If such deteriorated oil is accidentally added to the engine, it could damage components. I learned this the hard way when I almost used old oil that had turned darker and thinner from prolonged storage. Now, I carry only a small temporary backup bottle and make sure to use it promptly or store it in a shaded area inside the car. Cooler spots like under the passenger seat are much better than the trunk. Also, remember that engine oil typically has a shelf life of 1-2 years, and summer storage speeds up expiration—don’t compromise your vehicle’s performance over small savings. Getting your oil checked by professionals during regular maintenance makes things much easier.

[DeIker]

Never store engine oil in the trunk during summer. High temperatures can cause the oil to deteriorate, reducing its engine protection performance. The bottle may also expand and leak, creating a mess. My simple solution: if you must carry spare oil, placing it under the seat or in a shaded area is much better. Also, don't store it for too long—using it within one or two weeks is ideal. Summer heat is tough on oil, so check oil levels more frequently as part of regular maintenance.