What is the shelf life of Shell engine oil after opening?
2 Answers
In terms of shelf life, Shell engine oil is the same as other ordinary engine oils. When unopened, its shelf life is approximately 5-6 years. 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 temperature will rise, causing the oil volume to expand. This increases pressure in the oil chamber and operating resistance, leading to reduced vehicle power and increased fuel consumption. Overfilling engine oil: Excessive engine oil can cause oil to leak through the crankcase vent pipe. Increased pressure in the crankcase can loosen the oil seal due to oil pressure, resulting in oil leakage. Heat dissipation: Overfilling engine oil can affect engine heat dissipation.
As a long-time car user who frequently changes oil, especially Shell, a brand I trust, I've learned that the shelf life of Shell oil after opening is typically six to twelve months, but this depends on how it's stored. I generally recommend keeping the bottle sealed and storing it in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and dust. If stored improperly, it can deteriorate in as little as six months. Once, I carelessly used oil that had been opened for a year and a half, and the engine had difficulty starting and made unusual noises. After inspection, the problem was traced back to degraded oil. Since then, I've made it a habit to mark the date when opening and set a six-month reminder to use it up or dispose of it promptly. This not only protects the car's engine but also saves money and hassle.
