If you own a car and have a garage or shed, you likely have some old engine oil lying around. However, you might be wondering, does engine oil expire?
It might be an unopened bottle from a DIY oil change or the leftover remains of a mechanic’s previous oil change.
Now, the dilemma confronting you is whether engine oil expires. And what signs can help you determine if your engine oil has expired?
In this article, we will provide all the information regarding the shelf life of motor oil, including how to identify when it has gone bad and the differences between conventional and synthetic oils.
Photo Credit: AutoChimps
Does engine oil expire?
Yes, engine oil does expire.
While engine oil typically has a long shelf life, it can deteriorate over time due to factors such as exposure to air, heat, and contaminants.
Additionally, the additives in the oil which enhance its performance can break down over time.
It’s therefore important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific oil you’re using and be mindful of the expiration or recommended replacement date.
Furthermore, If engine oil appears discolored, has a strong odor, or has visible contaminants, it’s a sign that it may have expired.
Using an already expired engine oil may damage your engine.
Regular oil changes according to the manufacturer’s guidelines help maintain engine health and performance.
Signs that you’re due for an oil change
- The oil change indicator is illuminated
- There’s a knocking noise from your car
- The oil light on the dashboard is illuminated
- Your car is consuming more oil than usual
- The Check Engine light is activated
- The engine of your car feels sluggish
How long Does Engine oil last?
According to major oil companies, a sealed engine oil container kept away from extreme heat, can stay good for two to five years.
Typically, regular engine oil remains viable for about five years in unopened containers.
However, semi-synthetic and synthetic motor oils can last seven to eight years.
These are general estimates, and the actual lifespan of your engine oil depends on factors like storage conditions and the oil type.
Photo Credit: AutoChimps
What’s the difference between conventional and synthetic engine oil?
Conventional Oil
Conventional oil is a derivative of crude oil and it falls under group classifications groups I and II.
The first group is made up of mineral, non-synthetic base oil with minimal additives, while the second group includes mineral oil with additive packages.
This type of conventional oil is widely utilized in engines and is considered the most prevalent.
Synthetic Oils
In contrast to conventional motor oil, synthetic engine oil is not naturally formed.
It is a blend of crude oil and artificial chemicals designed to mimic the properties of conventional oil.
The API classifies synthetic engine oil within group classifications III, IV, and V.
Group III synthetic oils are the most affordable type of synthetic engine oil. They are made up of hydrogenated synthetic compounds or hydro waxes.
Group IV synthetic oils are produced from a combination of mineral and monomolecular oil known as polyalphaolefin (POA).
Lastly, Group V synthetic oils are derived from non-mineral sources, such as alcohol from corn, diesters, or polyesters.
Which is better, Synthetic or Conventional oil?
When it comes to motor/engine oils, synthetic oil is better than conventional oil.
Synthetic oil is made from very refined base oil mixed with special chemicals, making it more durable and less likely to break down.
In contrast, conventional motor oil is produced from crude oil with a lower level of refinement.
The molecules in conventional oil are not as uniformly sized as those in synthetic oil.
As a result, conventional oil is more susceptible to degradation and tends to break down more quickly than synthetic motor oil.
How to Tell If Your Engine Oil is Bad
There are signs that can suggest the deterioration of your engine oil. This can be categorized into two sections: used and unused engine oil.
Used engine oil
Used engine oil typically refers to engine oil that has been used in an engine.
The primary sign that your used engine oil is no longer effective is its color.
Usually, Fresh or new engine oil is translucent/ light amber in color.
As oil breaks down, it eventually turns dark brown or black due to oxidation.
Another sign that your used engine oil is bad or going bad is its consistency.
If the oil feels gritty or becomes thick, it has likely begun to degrade or go bad.
Ultimately, one of the primary factors used to assess the condition of engine oil is the mileage it has accumulated.
Unused Engine Oil
Motor oil that has not been put in an engine is called unused engine oil.
The expiry date is the main sign that your unused engine oil is no longer good.
After a while, unused engine oil will deteriorate and become less effective.
The majority of engine oils have expiry dates printed out on the bottles or cans.
However, the expiry date does not tell you exactly when your oil is bad. It only shows when the motor oil stops being slippery enough.
When should you change your oil?
Typically, synthetic engine oils can endure approximately 5,000 – 15,000 miles before change.
Conventional engine oils on the other side can only go 3000 miles before an oil change is due.
Nonetheless, if you drive extensively or under demanding conditions, such as hot weather or dusty roads, more frequent oil changes may be necessary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, motor oil does expire and lose its efficiency over time.
However, the expiry date on the bottle is not the only factor that determines when you need to replace your oil.
The type of oil, the storage conditions, and the usage of the oil all affect its shelf life and performance.
Therefore, it is important to check your oil regularly and look for signs of degradation, such as color, consistency, and smell.
By doing so, you can ensure that your engine oil is always fresh and protect your engine from damage.