How Long Is Oil Good For?
How long is oil good for? Find out at IPAC Pre-Owned Outlet.
Absolutely, your oil will expire, regardless if it's inside your engine or sitting in storage. But, the expiration date varies quite drastically if the motor oil is in an engine versus sitting on a shelf. Firstly, let's look at how long oil can last in an engine. The reason drivers get oil changes is because the oil breaks down when driven thousands of miles. As the oil gets used, it loses the capability to fully protect the engine components as effectively. Used oil can also contain pollutants (such as tiny pieces of metal or even dirt) that could eventually damage the internal components of the engine. Hence, why most vehicle manufacturers suggest changing your oil roughly every 5,000 miles. Your oil change schedule will vary depending on your driving style, climate, and age of the vehicle. Review the recommendations with your service advisor to help find the perfect oil change schedule for you. Oil sitting in storage has a longer lifespan because the oil won't have been exposed to the elements or the internals of a running engine.
How Long Is Oil Good For?
If stored correctly in its original, unopened packaging, the shelf life of oil could be as long as 5 years. This life span is dependent on the climate conditions, with exposure to extreme heat being the most common issue. If you have an older car that's been sitting for a while, the expiration date of its oil will be significantly shorter. The oil may have been exposed to the engine's internal components even if it has not been driven for a long time.
Is It Recommended To Use Expired Oil In A Vehicle?
No, drivers should not use old oil due to its degraded ability to lubricate critical engine components. Old oil can contain debris and particles that may block the engine's internal components and possibly result in damage. Given that a quart of motor oil costs just a few dollars, the risk is not worth using expired oil that could lead to engine damage and result in thousands of dollars in repair bills. Using fresh oil helps guarantee that the engine is adequately lubricated and guarded against excessive wear and tear. It is advised to use high-quality motor oil and adhere to the manufacturer's recommended oil change interval to keep the engine running smoothly and prevent expensive repairs. Spending a little bit of money right now to replace the expired oil can potentially save you a lot of money.
How Can You Tell If There's Expired Motor Oil?
The most obvious indicator of expired motor oil is the oil life light on the vehicle's dashboard. Further symptoms of expired engine oil include increased engine noise, lowered fuel economy, a lit-up check engine light, or possibly an odor of burning oil. If the oil appears darkened, gritty, or thick to the touch, it means that it ought to be changed. Clean oil appears transparent with a light brown look. When you have a regular maintenance schedule that includes changing your oil, you can lower the amount of old oil circulating in your engine. This may lead to better engine performance and help with enhanced durability for the car.
Schedule Your Oil Change In San Antonio
Choosing IPAC Pre-Owned Outlet In San Antonio, 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 IPAC Pre-Owned Outlet with your oil change needs, you can rest easy knowing that your car is in capable hands and will receive top-notch service.