Can unopened engine oil still be used after 10 years?
1 Answers
Unopened engine oil cannot be used after 10 years, as the shelf life of engine oil does not exceed 5 years. Shelf life of engine oil: Unopened engine oil generally has a shelf life of 5 years, while the remaining oil after opening has a shelf life of 1 year, and oil poured into the engine has a shelf life of 6 months. The main factor affecting the shelf life of engine oil is the storage conditions. The greater the temperature fluctuations and humidity in the storage environment, the faster the oil deteriorates. For every 1 degree Celsius increase in temperature, the lifespan of the oil is halved. Consequences of prolonged storage: If engine oil is stored for too long, the additives (such as antioxidants, detergents, and dispersants) will become ineffective, accelerating the oxidation process of the oil and causing it to lose its lubricating and protective properties. Instead, it may corrode the engine. If the oil has been stored for four or five years or even longer, check for abnormal odor, sediment, or unusual appearance (such as cloudiness or whitening) when opening the container. If any abnormal signs are present, it is best not to use the oil.