Originally Posted By: BrocLuno
Depends on the oil. Straight mineral base oils start to develop wax crystal formation and separation at around 10*F. Anything below 0*F in storage is a big cause for concern.
This is an older oil, so we just need to know if it got that cold? If it did not, there won't be any separation and so no need to re-heat before use. If there was, you'll need to bring it up to 150*F and stir to make sure any wax formations dissolve and return to the oil matrix.
The refiners all warn against freezing when storing oils. As long as they don't, they are good in the bottle/can for a long time. The time varies by who you talk to. 5 years, 10 years, some say indefinite ...
The other no-no is storage in direct sunlight. I don't quite get this one unless it's in a clear bottle ... In a can or a drum, it should not make any difference. But I guess all the plastic bottle are partially UV transparent ...
The oil will get to 150°F and mix the first time you drive the carafter pouring it in. I can't see it being an issue unless you do a change in the midst of a canadian winter, and then don't drive.
But it is ofcourse good practice to store products properly. I use my basements, which has the most stable temperatures of the whole house (around 55-60°F) and no sunlight whatsoever.
I once poured some clear polyolester in a used water bottle, and even while sitting in the house that oil turned yellow very quickly, like a vegetable oil.