Does car engine oil have an expiration date?
2 Answers
Automotive engine oil does not have a unified expiration period, as different brands of oil have varying shelf lives. Here is more information about car engine oil: 1. Engine oil is the lubricant for the engine, which can lubricate the engine, reduce friction, assist in cooling, and minimize buffering. Using engine oil can reduce wear on engine components and extend their service life. 2. Engine oil can be classified into different models based on viscosity and quality. If your car is used in the cold regions of Northeast China and has undergone routine maintenance before winter, the oil used is likely a model that is resistant to low temperatures and performs well in cold-start conditions. However, as temperatures rise, changing to the appropriate grade of oil can ensure the engine operates in the best condition.
Engine oil does have an expiration date. Having repaired cars for over a decade, I've seen many cases of problems caused by expired engine oil. Unopened engine oil typically has a shelf life of 3 to 5 years, depending on the date printed on the packaging. Once opened, the shelf life becomes shorter, usually needing to be used within 6 months to a year. Over time, engine oil undergoes oxidation, and the additives in the base oil can separate and settle, much like how juice separates when left for too long. When storing engine oil, it's important to keep it in a cool, dry place and avoid significant temperature fluctuations. This is especially critical for turbocharged models, as using expired oil can lead to insufficient lubrication of the turbo shaft. I've dealt with several cases in the repair shop where turbo failures were caused by oil-related issues. In reality, it's best to follow the maintenance schedule in the owner's manual for oil changes and avoid stockpiling too much engine oil.
