How Long Can the Remaining Half of the Engine Oil Be Stored?
2 Answers
For the shelf life of opened lubricating oil, when stored at temperatures between 8~35°C in a dry and light-free environment, it can be preserved for approximately 3 to 5 years. Below is an introduction to engine oil-related information: 1. Increased fuel consumption: When adding engine oil, the oil level should be between the upper and lower limits on the dipstick. If too much oil is added, the engine's temperature rise will cause the oil volume to expand, increasing the oil chamber pressure and operational resistance, leading to reduced vehicle power and increased fuel consumption. 2. Overfilling oil: Excessive oil can cause the crankcase breather pipe to leak oil, increasing crankcase pressure. This pressure can loosen the oil seal, resulting in oil leakage. 3. Heat dissipation: Overfilling oil can affect the engine's heat dissipation.
I've been repairing cars for almost twenty years and have encountered many oil storage issues. For opened engine oil that's half used, as long as the cap is tightly sealed and stored in a cool, dry place, it can generally last from six months to a year without problems. Engine oil absorbs moisture and oxidizes over time, becoming thicker and losing its lubricating effectiveness. Using degraded oil can potentially damage engine components. I prefer storing it in glass bottles or the original containers, avoiding direct sunlight, and checking every two months. If the oil color darkens or develops a sour smell, I discard it immediately and replace it with fresh oil. Storing oil for too long isn't worth the risk—it's most convenient to use it during the next maintenance service. Try not to exceed this storage duration to avoid subsequent repair troubles.
