Does engine oil have an expiration date?
2 Answers
Engine oil does have an expiration date. It cannot be used indefinitely in a continuous cycle. Apart from replenishing due to oil consumption, it also needs to be replaced when it expires. Most car owners frequently check whether the oil level is sufficient but rarely pay attention to whether the oil has expired. This is especially true for those who don't drive often, as they might take a long time to finish a bottle of oil. Therefore, the expiration date of engine oil is an important aspect to consider. The shelf life of engine oil depends on its condition: unopened engine oil can last up to 5 years; leftover oil after a car service has a shelf life of one year; and oil poured into the engine has a shelf life of 6 months.
Engine oil does have a shelf life, just like soy sauce at home - it goes bad over time. I remember buying a promotional barrel of oil last time. The unopened one was still usable after two years, but when I opened the previously opened bottle, I found sediment and immediately threw it away. Generally, unopened engine oil can last about 5 years, while opened oil should ideally be used within 1 year because air exposure causes oxidation and reduces lubricity. Store it in a cool, dry place away from heat and humidity, as moisture contamination degrades oil quality faster. Using expired oil can damage the engine, increasing noise and even shortening engine life. I always check the production date on the bottle before purchasing. Regular oil changes are crucial - don't risk engine damage to save money.
