Motor Oil Expiration Dates & Shelf Life
Currently, according to known oil specialists and lubrication laboratory testing a non-used or non-opened lubricant, engine oil, ATF, transmission fluid, grease, gear oil, transfer case fluid, coolant, or antifreeze product has no expiration date. However, this is dependent on several scenarios.
If the product has not been used, stored in a factory-sealed container in a temperature-controlled storage facility, and hasn't experienced years (5 yrs.) of excessive ambient temperature and humidity changes, the oil's intended fluid formulation, properties, and additives are still intact, and stable for its intended application, and use. Most modern synthetics will not separate or change in molecular makeup in storage, rather only from normal vehicle use during everyday engine and driveline lubricating heat cycles resulting in normal oil service interval lubricating depletion or deterioration. As mentioned below, the calendar date of when the oil was manufactured listed on the bottle does not affect the performance of the product.
