Does Oil Go Bad?
Does oil go bad? Learn more at Finnegan Chevrolet Buick GMC.
Absolutely, your oil does go bad, whether in an engine or sitting on a shelf. However, the expiration date varies quite significantly if the oil is in storage vs. sitting in an engine. To begin, let's look at the date the engine oil goes bad in an engine. Owners get regular oil changes because the oil breaks down when driven thousands of miles. As the motor oil ages, it loses the capacity to lubricate and protect the engine as effectively. Old oil may also have contaminants that could hurt the internal components of the motor. Hence, why most vehicle manufacturers suggest changing your oil roughly every 5k miles. Your oil change schedule will vary depending on the local climate, your driving habits, and age of the car. Review the recommendations with your service advisor to find the right oil change interval for your car. Oil sitting in storage has a longer lifespan because the engine oil hasn't been exposed to the elements or the internals of a running engine.
What is the Shelf Life of Motor Oil?
If stored properly in the original, sealed containers, the shelf life of oil could be as high as five years. This life span may also vary depending on the climate conditions, with long-term exposure to heat being problematic. If you own an antique vehicle that's been in storage for a while, the expiration date of its oil will be considerably shorter. The oil has been exposed to the engine's inner workings even if it was not driven for a while.
Is It Recommended To Use Expired Oil In Your Vehicle?
Using old oil is not advised due to its lowered ability to lubricate important engine components. Old oil may contain debris and sediments that may obstruct the engine's internal components and result in harm. When you consider that a quart of motor oil is only a few dollars, it is not worth the risk of using expired oil that may lead to engine damage and cause thousands of dollars in repair bills. Using fresh oil helps ensure that your engine is adequately lubricated and protected from unnecessary damage. It's recommended to use high-quality motor oil and adhere to the manufacturer's suggested oil change interval to keep the engine operating efficiently and to help prevent costly repairs. Spending a small amount of money right now to change the old oil may potentially save you big in the long run.
How Can You Tell If There Is Bad Engine Oil?
The most obvious sign of old oil is the oil life light on the car's dashboard. Additional indicators of old engine oil may consist of diminished fuel economy, increased engine noise, a lit-up check engine light, or even an odor of burning oil. When your motor oil appears gritty, dark, or sludgy to the touch, it suggests that it should be changed. Good oil looks somewhat clear with an amber color. By consistently changing your oil, you can lower the amount of expired oil flowing in your engine. This can result in better engine performance and help with long-term durability for the vehicle.
Schedule Your Oil Change Near Sugar Land
Choosing Finnegan Chevrolet Buick GMC Near Sugar Land, 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 Finnegan Chevrolet Buick GMC with your oil change needs, you can rest easy knowing that your car is in capable hands and will receive top-notch service.