Motor oil is essential for keeping your engine working well, but it doesn’t last forever. Knowing how long motor oil stays good and how to store it correctly can help your engine stay in great shape.
In this guide, we’ll talk about how long motor oil lasts when not used, what makes it unsuitable, and the best ways to store it so it lasts longer. Whether you use regular or synthetic oil, storing it properly will help your car run smoothly for a long time.
Engine Oil Shelf Life
Engine oil doesn’t last forever. Knowing how long it stays good can help you figure out when to change it.
How Long Does Unused Engine Oil Last?
Unused engine oil usually lasts about five years. However, this can change depending on the type of oil. Regular oils last about two to five years, while synthetic oils last longer because of their unique chemical structure. Even if stored well, oil will eventually lose its power to protect the engine.
Over time, engine oil’s unique ingredients break down, making it less effective at keeping the engine safe and running smoothly. These ingredients help the oil stay thick and fight against damage, but they wear out as the oil ages, whether you use it or not.
What Makes Engine Oil Go Bad?
A few things can make engine oil go bad faster. Changes in temperature, light, and the container it’s kept in all affect how long it lasts. High heat can cause the oil to thicken, while cold temperatures can make the oil clumpy and harder to flow.
One big reason oil breaks down is oxidation. This happens when the oil reacts with air, making it more acidic and less able to protect the engine. To keep oil fresh for a longer time, store it in a cool, dark place away from heat and light.
How Storage Conditions Affect Engine Oil Quality
Storing engine oil the right way can help it last longer. If you don’t store it properly, even the best oil can go bad faster than expected.
Temperature and Light Exposure
Extreme temperatures and too much light can cause engine oil to go bad. High heat speeds up oxidation, and sunlight can break down the oil’s special ingredients, making it less effective at protecting your engine. To keep oil in good condition, store it in a cool, dark place.
The best temperature for storing oil is between 50°F and 80°F (10°C to 27°C). Keeping it away from heat and sunlight helps the oil stay thick and work better.
Container Integrity and Sealing
Even the best motor oil needs to be stored properly. The container’s seal is important because when air gets in, the oil goes bad faster. If the seal is broken, air and moisture can get into the oil and ruin it.
Keep oil in its original, tightly sealed container and store it upright to avoid spills. If you have leftover oil, transfer it into a smaller, airtight container to keep air out. Proper storage helps keep the oil working longer.
Best Tips for Storing Motor Oil
Here are some simple tips to help motor oil last longer:
- Always store it in a cool, dry place.
- Could you keep it away from sunlight and heat?
- If you can, store it in a climate-controlled area to avoid temperature changes.
Oil should be stored on shelves to keep the containers safe and avoid spills. It’s also a good idea to write down the date you bought or opened the oil so you know how long it’s been stored.
Does Engine Oil Go Bad When Sitting in an Engine?
Engine oil can go bad if it sits unused in an engine for too long. Heat, moisture, and dirt can make the oil break down faster. Knowing how long oil can sit in your engine before needing a change is essential to avoid engine damage.
How Oil Breaks Down in the Engine
When oil sits in an engine, it faces problems. Over time, air, moisture, and temperature changes can cause the oil to break down. Even if the engine isn’t running, humidity can let water get into the oil, which makes it less effective at keeping the engine running smoothly and can cause rust.
As the oil sits, it can become thicker and sludgy. This makes it harder for the oil to flow and protect the engine. To avoid these problems, it’s important to change the oil regularly, even if the engine is not used often.
How to Tell When Engine Oil Needs Changing
You can tell when something needs to be changed by looking for signs. It isn’t good if the oil looks dark, thick, or sludgy. If it smells burnt, that’s another sign the oil has broken down.
You can check the oil with a dipstick. Fresh oil is usually light amber, but old oil looks darker. If you notice these signs after the engine has been sitting, it’s time to change the oil to keep your engine working well.
Comparing Oil Types: How Long Do Synthetic and Conventional Oils Last?
Different types of engine oil last for various amounts of time, even when stored properly. Knowing the differences can help you pick the right oil for a longer-lasting performance.
Does Synthetic Motor Oil Last Longer Than Conventional Oil?
Yes, synthetic motor oil usually lasts longer than conventional oil. Synthetic oil is made with special chemicals that help it resist breaking down and losing effectiveness. This allows it to last longer and keep your engine safe for a long time. It’s a good choice if you don’t use your vehicle often or store motor oil.
Conventional oil comes from crude oil and has some natural impurities, which can make it break down faster. This means it doesn’t last as long, mainly if it’s not used for a while. To get the best results, check how long each type of oil can be stored.
How Often Should You Check and Change Old Engine Oil?
It’s essential to check your engine oil regularly, especially if your car has been sitting for a while. You can use the dipstick to look at the oil’s color and texture. If the oil looks darker or feels gritty, it’s time to change it.
How to Tell When Engine Oil is Too Old and Needs Changing
Knowing when the oil is too old is essential to keep your engine running smoothly. Spotting the signs of lousy oil will help you keep your engine well-lubricated and healthy.
Also Read: Is It Necessary to Use High-Mileage Oil for Older Vehicles?
What to Look for in Oil: Color, Texture, and Smell
Bad engine oil usually looks, feels, and smells different. Fresh oil is light amber, but if it is old or broken down, it may look darker, thicker, or gritty. If it smells burnt or sour, the oil’s protective additives are gone and will not properly protect your engine.
If you notice these signs, it’s time to change the oil. Ignoring them can cause engine parts to wear out faster and may lead to costly repairs.
Choosing the Best Engine Lubricant for Your Vehicle
Picking the proper engine lubricant is essential for how well your vehicle works. At Fubex Lubricants, we offer high-quality oils perfect for your vehicle’s engine and how you use them. For cars that go fast, synthetic lubricants help the engine run better in cold weather and protect it from getting too hot, making it last longer.
When picking the proper lubricant, always check your vehicle’s user manual to ensure you’re using the best one for your car.
The proper engine lubricant keeps your car’s engine in great shape and helps it last longer. Checking the oil regularly and following the recommended change schedule will help keep your engine healthy.
When Should You Change Your Oil?
Most motor oils last about 5,000 miles before they need to be changed. But you should change your oil more often if you drive a lot or in harsh conditions, like hot weather or dusty roads. Fubex suggests occasionally checking your oil’s level and quality to know when it’s time for a change.
If you have a newer car, you can check your oil level on the car’s screen without getting your hands dirty. If you’re unsure when to change your oil, it’s always good to check your car’s manual or ask a mechanic.
How to Store Motor Oil Properly
Storing motor oil correctly is essential to keep it working well for your car. If you want your oil to last longer and stay good, follow these simple tips:
- Pick the Right Place to Store Oil: Store motor oil in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Don’t put it in spots like attics or sheds, where the temperature changes frequently, because heat or cold can make the oil go bad.
- Keep Oil Safe from Moisture and Air: Moisture and air can make motor oil less effective. To keep moisture away, keep the lid on oil containers tightly closed and store them off the ground.
- Check the Expiration Date: Oil has an expiration date, so use it before it runs out. Look at the label for the date, and try to use the oldest oil first to keep it fresh.
- Think About Synthetic Oils: Synthetic oils are unique because they last longer and work better. They can handle the heat, but you must still store them correctly. Follow the instructions on the bottle to keep them safe.
- Use Separate Containers for Different Oils: If you have a lot of oils, like a mechanic or car enthusiast, store them in separate containers. This helps prevent oils from mixing up and keeps them fresh.
- Avoid Too Hot or Too Cold: Extreme temperatures can ruin motor oil. If you live in a place with hot summers or freezing winters, store your oil somewhere where the temperature doesn’t change too much.
- Check Your Stored Oil Regularly: Every once in a while, check your stored oil for leaks or signs of damage. If you find any problems, fix them quickly to keep the oil in good condition.
Rules for Storing Engine Oil the Right Way
Mineral and synthetic oils should be stored in tightly closed containers to keep your engine oil in good shape. Keep them out of direct sunlight and in a cool, dry place with good airflow. Mineral oil usually doesn’t last as long as synthetic oil.
Here’s how to store engine oil properly:
- Always keep it in a sealed container.
- Don’t throw used engine oil in the trash or flush it down the toilet. Please take it to a local waste facility or an auto shop for safe disposal.
Final Words
In conclusion, storing engine oil correctly is essential to keep it fresh and help your car run smoothly. Just follow these easy tips: keep the oil away from moisture and air and properly store synthetic oils. This will help your oil last longer and keep your car in good condition.
FAQs
Q1: How long can motor oil sit?
After motor oil is opened, it can last for 2 to 5 years. But if it’s not used during that time, it will start to break down and won’t work either.
Q2: Does Synthetic Motor Oil Expire?
Yes, synthetic motor oil can expire, just like regular motor oil. But the good news is it lasts about seven to eight years before it needs to be replaced.
