How to Store Engine Oil?
2 Answers
Engine oil should be stored by: 1. Placing it in a dry and cool place; 2. Avoiding direct sunlight and keeping it away from fire sources. The functions of engine oil are: 1. Separating the surfaces of relatively sliding parts such as pistons and cylinders, main shafts and bearing bushes to reduce wear; 2. Bringing heat back to the oil tank and dissipating it into the air to help the radiator cool; 3. Bringing carbon deposits, sludge, and worn metal particles back to the oil tank through circulation to clean the working surfaces of parts; 4. Forming a seal between the piston rings and pistons to reduce gas leakage and prevent contaminants from entering; 5. Adsorbing on the surfaces of parts to prevent water, air, acidic substances, and harmful gases from contacting the parts; 6. Buffering the impact load on pistons, piston chips, connecting rods, and crankshaft bearings.
As a DIY car owner, I've learned that oil storage requires attention to detail to ensure effectiveness. After opening, the oil must be poured back into its original container with the cap tightly sealed to prevent moisture and dust intrusion. Store it in a dry, cool place, such as a shaded corner of the garage, keeping the temperature between 0-30°C, away from heaters or windows, as sunlight exposure accelerates oil oxidation, making it thicken and degrade. Mineral oil is more sensitive to temperature changes than synthetic oil—it solidifies when frozen and degrades when overheated—so the storage location must be stable. I also label the bottle with the opening date to remind myself to use it within six months to a year, as long-term storage can cause additives to lose effectiveness and reduce lubrication. Unopened new oil can last up to five years, but always check the packaging for integrity. Once, I carelessly left the cap loose, allowing water to mix with the oil, which caused increased engine noise when used—a hard lesson learned. Regularly organize your oil inventory to avoid overstocking. Proper storage not only saves money but also ensures safety and peace of mind.
