Does Engine Oil Expire

[4fishys]

Got a guy locally selling gallons of Merc DFI Synthetic Oil for $25.00 / gal. versus $39.00 at Bass Pro. My buddy got some, and it looks to have a date of 2008. Is this still good? My guess is yes. There's no guarantee the stuff you might buy in a marina or store is any newer, depending on how they judged their purchasing. If they don't sell it this year, guess what you'll be seeing next spring?

I'd love to save some $$$$, but curious if there are any concerns.

Thanks for your answers.

[eric1978]

I'd pay the extra money for fresh oil if I was putting it into any engine I cared about. Oil breaks down and goes bad, opened or unopened. Your motor probably won't blow up, but why risk it to save such a small amount of cash?

[Dutch]

I get DI oil for my Opti at Sport Boats in Ozark... 30 bones/gallon.

[fishinwrench]

Synthetic Oil with a "Born On Date" of 2008 is considered good until 2014 if unopened.

[4fishys]

Wrench,

YOU DA MAN! I was hoping that you'd see this and reply. Thanks a bunch. I'll let my buddy know, and probably pick up a few gallons for myself.

Dutch,

Is that for the synthetic blend? I've shopped it a bit in Chi-town, and prices are pretty consistent. 30 bones is a pretty good deal.

Thanks again guys.