Does two cycle oil have a shelf life?

Answer by  ThomasGriffin (29)

If we're talking about unused oil sitting on a shelf, then no, there is no shelf life. You could use oil refined even 50 years ago, though it won't contain the same additives as newer oil. However, you shouldn't leave oil in your tank for more than a year without use, it could solidify and become gelatinous.

Answer by  mike90 (71)

Yes,all petrolium products have a shelf life. Oil, depending on manufacture and product normally ranges from 1-2 years,oxidation being the main reason it goes bad so change it out

Answer by  thetwnsmama (23)

Two cycle oil has no shelf life, although the older oil won't contain the same additives as newer oil would.

Answer by  sdblack99 (329)

IT probably does but its not going to be significant. Oil isn't as reactive as say gasoline which can go bad after the years. Oil on the other hand should stay good for many many years. On the other hand it is super cheap so why risk it anyways.

Answer by  sitakanta (5)

Not really. The oil is not hygroscopic, meaning it won't attract a moisture infusion. It can be emulsified with moisture if in an open container and agitated . Oil in an engine shouldn't be used if allowed to set that long, it will may have absorbed hydrocarbons from the engine

Answer by  Jim23 (303)

Two cycle oil that is unopened in a can or bottle can be used anywhere from 10 years to 50 years. Shake it up before using.

Answer by  oddflash (902)

In an unopened container the answer is no. If the oil is in your oil tank then the answer is yes. Oil doesn't degrade when unopened.

Answer by  6ixk (1156)

You can buy various this to add to oil to make it maintain longer, but if its questionable its best to buy more. Bad oil will lock your engine.

Answer by  cajuncuz (177)

I have heard anywhere From 2 to 3 years. It depends on the situation. If it starts to smell bad or change color it is going bad. Some people I have heard say that it lasts a life time.

Answer by  Mikhaili (27)

As long as it is unopened, it should have a shelf life of 8-10 years. Be sure to shake it up well to insure all components that may have separated are blended again. If previously opened, replace with a new bottle.

Answer by  kennethjgoodson (4903)

Two cycle oil does not have a shelf life but if it seems really old and the date is it was bought is way back in the day you should probably get new oil for the equipment you are using it in. For a five dollar thing of oil it is going to be worth it.