The short answer: Shelf life varies depending on the individual product and environmental conditions, including temperature and potential product contamination. AMSOIL lubricants sealed in their original containers can be stored up to five years; use AMSOIL greases within two years.
AMSOIL products are engineered to retain their original performance while in storage. Monitoring and maintaining your storage environment will help ensure maximum product performance and shelf life.
What’s the shelf life of AMSOIL lubricants?
Shelf life varies depending on the individual product and environmental conditions, including temperature and potential product contamination.
Motor Oil – AMSOIL lubricants sealed in their original containers can be stored up to five years.
Grease – Use AMSOIL greases within two years to minimize risk of hardening.
Aerosols – AMSOIL cleaners and protectants can be stored up to five years.
| Product | Shelf life (sealed in original container) |
|---|---|
| AMSOIL motor oil and lubricants | Up to five years |
| AMSOIL grease | Use within two years to minimize risk of hardening |
| AMSOIL aerosol cleaners and protectants | Up to five years |
Factors that affect lubricant shelf life
Contamination – Water intrusion from leaky seals and condensation and foreign matter like dirt, cleaning agents and solvents can cause lubricants to degrade, resulting in reduced performance.
Temperature – The ideal storage temperature for all lubricants is between 32°F (0°C) to 85°F (29°C). Temperatures outside of this range promote water migration and can cause additive separation or reduce the effectiveness of additives over time.
Maximizing lubricant shelf life
Store products in their original containers in a clean, dry, temperate and ventilated indoor location away from solvents and cleaning agents to avoid damage from environmental contamination and temperature fluctuations.
General storage
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- Store all products away from direct sunlight and sources of heat or ignition.
- Aerosols in cold-temperature storage should be warmed to room temperature before use.
- Store AMSOIL Greases, Coolant Boost, Diesel 4-in-1 and Miracle Wash above 32ºF (0ºC).
- Use first-in/first-out (FIFO) inventory management to ensure the oldest lubricants are used first.
- Store unopened drums horizontally with the sealing bungs horizontally positioned.
- Store unopened grease vertically with the seal up.
Outdoor storage (not recommended)
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- Protect containers from the elements, including direct sunlight, dirt, snow, rain, etc.
- Store containers on shelves, racks or pallets to keep them off the ground.
Still not sure?
Many AMSOIL products can withstand extreme temperatures. When in doubt about correct AMSOIL product storage or usage, please read the product label and data sheet, contact our Customer Service Department or call (715) 399-8324 for technical assistance.
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David Hilgendorf is an AMSOIL Technical Writer who develops content for automotive, powersports and industrial audiences. His work includes technical data sheets, magazine articles, blog posts, white papers, product literature and application guidance. Hilgendorf works with engineers, laboratory personnel and technical specialists to communicate lubricant testing, product performance, maintenance practices, metalworking fluids, grease, motorcycles, marine equipment and industrial reliability.
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