Shelf life of bottled engine oil and ATF (no brake fluid here!) - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

ericnguyen · #1 03-29-2003, 12:41 PM

Dear friends,

If I buy lots of engine oil/ATF and store them in the garage for several years (e.g. 5 years), will there be any degradation in their lubrication or additive-assisted anti-sludge & soot control quality?

I think they should be OK almost forever. What are your opinions?

Thank you very much.

Best regards,

Eric

Capt Kirk · #2 03-29-2003, 01:19 PM

I don't see why there'd be a problem.

You might want to shake the bottle before use though.

#3 03-29-2003, 01:26 PM

Why are you wanting to stock up and keep the fluids and keep them around for 5 years. The fluids should be fine though. I however can see you doing this if you can find a good deal on Mobile 1, and buying as much as you can. I have almost done this before, but passed on it due to some major oil leaks in my car.

Capt Kirk · #4 03-29-2003, 01:35 PM

well sales come and go................

and they are always making advances in their oils. Thats reason enough to not stock p for 5 years.

I stock up for a year's worth just cause it's easier to buy a case of Delvac 1300 at NAPA that way

tooter · #5 04-01-2003, 09:49 PM

I have noticed a fair amount of solid particles (wax??) settling in the bottom of engine oil cans that were sitting around between 4 to 6 years. So, even if it is a minority view, I would try to use up the oil before year 4, better yet, before year 2.

ericnguyen · #6 04-03-2003, 06:32 PM

Thank you all for your precious replies. I will only buy enough oil
for about a year supply. Anyway, Kragen always has good deals
on oil.

Best regards,

Eric