Recently, I was at an auto parts store and an employee told me that both engine oil and transmission oil have a shelf life of around 6 months before they start breaking down. Is this true? I need to change the transmission oil in my car (it's a manual) and I have the oil for it that has been sitting around for 2 years. Is it too late to use this oil and is it recommended to buy new oil? Thank you.
As long as sealed it should be OK.
No problem using it. Shake to mix back in any additives that may have settled out.
Absolutely false.
Motor oil has a shelf life but it is measured in decades at a minimum. It definitely doesn't break down at the 6 month mark.
If it makes you feel better, shake the container before using it. But that oil is just fine.
that's an interesting point. I recently read that oils can separate in the bottle over time.
that sounds like weapon grade balonium to me
If bottle is unopened, no problem. If opened, good for 1 year
Well the guy saying that the shelf life of oil is 6 months is clearly wrong. With that being said, engine oil is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture). As long as the oil is in a properly closed container, it should last a few years. Sealed oil containers will last even longer. If you shake the container and see that the oil is starting to foam, then it's contaminated with water.
Thank you both for the insight.
You are welcome
I came across oil I purchased a year and a half to two years ago from Costco. It's full synthetic. It's been in a shed outside out of direct sunlight. Is this oil still safe to use? I have two 5 quart jugs still sealed.
Thanks for any insight
Hey Scotty, I have a case of motor oil that's never been used could be up to 10 years old. How long is the shelf life of motor oil? I've always wondered. My assumption was it never really goes bad.
How long is the shelf life of motor oil?
Please use the search in the top right corner. This has already been answered many times. Thanks.