What is the shelf life of engine oil after opening?
1 Answers
Engine oil has a shelf life of 6 to 9 months after opening. Engine oil is highly sensitive to moisture in the air, ambient temperature, and light exposure. If exposed to air for prolonged periods or under strong light, it typically becomes ineffective. Using engine oil past its shelf life can cause significant damage to the car's engine, such as poor lubrication and compromised cooling effects. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, is often referred to as the 'blood' of a car. It serves multiple functions including lubrication, cleaning, cooling, sealing, wear reduction, rust prevention, and corrosion protection. A simple method to check the shelf life of engine oil is to observe changes in its viscosity, assess whether the smell has faded, and check for any color changes.