Does unopened engine oil have an expiration date?
1 Answers
Unopened engine oil does have an expiration date, typically around 5 years. The contamination and deterioration of stored engine oil occur due to its exposure to moisture, oxygen, and impurities in the air. Therefore, opened engine oil should be stored in a sealed container. Hazards of using expired engine oil: 1. It may affect engine operation; 2. Accelerates carbon deposit formation; 3. Increases wear and tear on engine components. Engine oil, also known as motor lubricant, serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, provide sealing and leak prevention, offer rust and corrosion protection, and act as a shock absorber for the engine. It is composed of base oil and additives, with the base oil being the primary component that determines the fundamental properties of the lubricant.