Does Engine Oil Go Bad if Car Not Used?

Engine oil is a vital fluid that helps to keep your car’s engine running smoothly. It lubricates the moving parts of the engine, helps to cool it, and protects it from corrosion. However, if your car is not used for an extended period of time, the engine oil can start to go bad.

How Does Engine Oil Go Bad?

Engine oil can go bad in two main ways:

Oxidation: Over time, the oxygen in the air can react with the oil and cause it to oxidize. This process can create harmful deposits that can clog up the engine and cause it to run less efficiently.
Contamination: Engine oil can also become contaminated with other fluids, such as coolant or fuel. This contamination can also lead to the formation of harmful deposits.

How Long Does Engine Oil Last?

The lifespan of engine oil depends on a number of factors, including the type of oil, the age of the car, and the driving conditions. However, most experts recommend changing your car’s oil every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. If you do not drive your car very often, you may be able to extend the oil change interval, but it is important to check the oil level and condition regularly.

What Happens if You Use Bad Engine Oil?

Using bad engine oil can have a number of negative consequences, including:

Increased engine wear
Reduced engine efficiency
Higher emissions
Engine failure

How to Prevent Engine Oil from Going Bad

There are a few things you can do to help prevent engine oil from going bad, including:

Change your car’s oil regularly: This is the best way to prevent the oil from oxidizing and becoming contaminated.
Use high-quality engine oil: High-quality engine oil is less likely to oxidize and become contaminated.
Drive your car regularly: Driving your car regularly helps to keep the oil circulated and prevents it from settling in the bottom of the oil pan, where it can become contaminated.

Conclusion

Engine oil is a vital fluid that helps to keep your car’s engine running smoothly. If your car is not used for an extended period of time, the engine oil can start to go bad. This can lead to a number of negative consequences, including increased engine wear, reduced engine efficiency, and higher emissions. To prevent engine oil from going bad, it is important to change your car’s oil regularly, use high-quality engine oil, and drive your car regularly.