How long does motor oil really last?
Simply put, the shelf life of conventional motor or “lube” oil is up to five years. It’s not something that goes bad in a couple of months. It’s impossible to predict exactly how long motor oil shelf life is because petroleum stability (how well it resists change in its properties) is situation-dependent.
Does motor oil expire in engine?
Under optimal conditions (stored in the original, unopened containers at moderate temperatures), motor oil usually remains stable for an extended period of time. That said, an engine oil’s properties are best if it is used within two years. After that, we recommend replacing the oil.
How long does synthetic motor oil last in a car?
Since 2002, this website has been conducting a long-term study on the longevity of synthetic motor oil. We accept that for most people in most cars, regular old “dinosaur juice” mineral-based motor oil will work just fine. We have seen plenty of cars run beyond 150,000 miles and 200,000 miles using the stuff as long as the oil is changed regularly.
Why does motor oil have a shorter shelf life?
If the motor oil contains elements like copper and iron, that could contribute to its lower shelf life since these elements act as catalysts and speed up oxidation. To stop the motor oil from freezing at low temperatures, manufacturers add pour point depressants, or PPDs.
How often should you change the oil in your car?
Most mechanics will recommend changing the oil in your car every few thousand miles, but some synthetic motor oils will be sold as 5,000- or even 10,000-mile oils.
What’s the life of the base oil in a GM car?
Oil lifetime is related more to the lifetime of the additives that’s the base oil. GM has a sophisticated oil lifetime algorithm developed over 20 years of use before your car was built. Depending on how you drive, it could last up to about 10,000 miles.
What is the best motor oil brand?
Wurth Triathlon. The best way to determine which oil, and which viscosity works best for your driving habits, climate and engine, is through used oil analysis, that way you can see how much engine wear is taking place.
Does engine oil go bad?
First of all, No, engine oil does not go “bad” after 3 months. If that were the case, there’d be a lot of engine oil sitting on a shelf in some auto parts store that is no good. Engine oil’s viscosity breaks down over time AND use.
What is the optimum engine oil temperature?
Your engine functions at its best when the oil is between 180 and 200 degrees. Most factory cooling systems, however, maintain fluid temperatures of approximately 200 to 220 degrees, which means the maximum temperature drop it can create in your oil still exceeds the ideal temperature.
Does synthetic motor oil ever expire?
Synthetic oils can still expire when not used for extended periods of time, though, and will need to be correctly stored – as with traditional motor oils. Most of the benefits will actually be for the car when used in the engine. Some additives in synthetic oils will make storing them easier, especially the temperature-fighting components.