Can Expired Engine Oil Still Be Used?

[SanCourtney]

Expired engine oil cannot be used. Once engine oil expires, the additives within it will volatilize and weaken, and the base oil will also oxidize, leading to a decline in the overall lubrication effectiveness of the oil. Adding expired oil can have adverse effects on the engine. The general shelf life of engine oil is 5 years, and oil that has exceeded this period should not be used. During the deterioration process, engine oil can produce impurities that, when introduced into the engine, accelerate carbon deposit formation and cause engine damage. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, is often referred to as the 'blood' of a car. It plays roles in lubricating, cleaning, cooling, sealing, and reducing friction in the engine. It mainly contains anti-wear additives, detergents, dispersants, and multi-grade oil viscosity index improvers. Engine oil is a lubricant used in internal combustion engines, powering cars, motorcycles, lawn mowers, internal combustion engine generators, and many other machines.