shelf life of opened oil

[Michael F.]

what is the shelf life of oil (mobil 1) after it is opened? have 2 quarts left after oil change from 5 qt. container.

[Russ S.]

Re: shelf life of opened oil

indefinite if kept clean.

[Stuart F.]

Re: shelf life of opened oil

I often have left over oil after doing an oil change with Shell Rotella T as it can usually only be found in Gallon containers, and I only need 6 Qts. Per change. I simple thread the cap back on and set it asside for my next change, or to top up if I burn any - naw, it hasn't started yet.

Stu Fox

[Philip A.]

Re: shelf life of opened oil

I thought Mobil 1 is synthetic and therefore does not degrade via time alone.

[Jim T.]

Re: shelf life of opened oil

Michael I contacted Mobil 1 in June of this year and asked about the shelf life of unopened Mobil 1. The reply was Mobile 1 in a sealed container conservative figure is 5 years, however it could be safe to use for 5-7 years.

[Duke W.]

Re: shelf life of opened oil

Everybody has an opinion and... try googling oil shelf life. There is some good published information from oil companies.

Duke

[Michael F.]

Re: shelf life of opened oil

Jim thanks and Duke guess I just wanted to get it out there and everyone would know the answer they might have wondered also.

[Duke W.]

Re: shelf life of opened oil

Like "tire life" there is no definitive answer on oil shelf life. It depends... on the product, storage conditions, and maybe other factors.

Here's what Mobil has to say:

http://www.mobilindustrial.com/ind/english/files/tt-lubricating-oils-greases-shelf-life-recommendations.pdf

Though this technical bulletin is focused on industrial products, there is no reason that automotive products are any different and there is no distinction between "conventional" and "synthetic" base oils.

Also, I consider a partially used bottle/jug of oil that has the cap re-installed snugly to be "sealed", but I don't stock-up more than about a two to three year supply when I find a good price.

Duke