How Long Is Motor Oil Good For?

How long is motor oil good for? Learn more at Beck & Masten Kia.

Yes your oil will expire, whether inside your engine or sitting in storage. Though, how long it takes to expire changes quite significantly if the oil is on a shelf vs. sitting in a motor. To begin, let’s examine how long engine oil can last in an engine. The reason for oil changes is because the oil breaks down over time. When the motor oil ages, it loses the capacity to fully lubricate and protect the engine as effectively. Old motor oil may also have pollutants that could damage the motor. Hence, why most vehicle manufacturers suggest changing your oil roughly every 5k miles. Your oil change schedule can vary depending on your driving style, climate, and the age of the vehicle. Consult with your service advisor to find the correct oil change schedule for you. The expiration of motor oil sitting on a shelf is much longer because the motor oil hasn’t been exposed to the elements, contaminants, or the internals of a running engine.

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How Long Does Unopened Motor Oil Last?

If stored correctly in the manufacturer’s sealed packaging, the shelf life of engine oil could be as high as 5 years. This shelf life will also fluctuate depending on the storage conditions, with long-term exposure to heat being the most common issue. If you have an antique vehicle that’s been in storage for a while, the expiration date of its oil will be considerably shorter. The oil may have been exposed to the engine’s internal components even if it was not driven for a while.

Can I Use Old Oil?

No, drivers should not use old oil due to its lowered ability to lubricate critical engine components. Expired oil may contain debris and sediments that may obstruct the engine’s internal components and cause harm. Given that a quart of motor oil is only a few dollars, the risk is not worth using expired oil that could lead to damage in your engine and cause thousands of dollars in repair bills. Using fresh oil helps ensure that the engine is properly lubricated and protected from excessive damage. It is always recommended to use high-quality motor oil and adhere to the recommended oil change interval to keep your engine operating smoothly and to help prevent expensive repairs. Spending a little bit of money right now to change the expired oil will likely save you big in the long run.

Symptoms of Bad Engine Oil?

The dashboard oil life light is the most obvious indication that your motor oil is expired. Other symptoms of expired engine oil may consist of diminished fuel economy, more engine noise, an illuminated check engine light, or even an odor of burning oil. When your oil seems gritty, darkened, or thick and sludgy to the touch, it means that it needs to be changed. Good oil looks somewhat clear with a light brown hue. Through consistently changing your oil, you can decrease the amount of old oil circulating in your engine. This can result in better engine performance and help with long-term durability for the vehicle.

Schedule Your Oil Change Near Houston

Choosing Beck & Masten Kia Near Houston, TX for your car’s oil change is an excellent decision. As a trusted local dealership, we are renowned for providing exceptional service and ensuring customer satisfaction. Our team of highly skilled technicians specializes in all areas of automotive maintenance, including oil changes. We prioritize the use of high-quality oil and genuine parts, guaranteeing the longevity and optimal performance of your vehicle. When you entrust Beck & Masten Kia with your oil change needs, you can rest easy knowing that your car is in capable hands and will receive top-notch service.