Filter Shelf Life?

[ZYellow01RT]

Just bought a dozen Mopar oil filters from "that auction site", and am now wondering if they lose any functionality over time.

At 2 changes a year, the last one will be used in about 6 years from now.

Is that too long of a storage time, and do any of the internal elements degrade over time?

 

[Martin]

They should be good pretty much 'forever' as long as you don't let them get wet, sit in the direct sunlight, or go through temperature extremes.

 

[ZYellow01RT]

Thanks. I know that paper and rubber materials degrade over time, but just didn't know how long it took to actually affect the filter's functionality.

 

[Steve-Indy]

Good info from a "filter expert" within the industry:
"Quality Spin-on oil filters will be fine for the six year period if kept
dry, and therefore rust free, no question.
Storage in controlled humidity
and temperature conditions is optimum as opposed to an outside shed where
thermal cycling occurs daily and internal water condensate can form.

Over several years, hot attic storage can dry out the media
and elastomers (gaskets), and should be avoided.
It is recommended that the
filters be stored gasket down to help insure they remain in the retaining
groove.

(If someone asks for the ultimate life, most companies would not
go past 10 years. Some say 3 years, but they want to sell filters)".

 

[Mopar Boy]

Very interesting.

I would have also said around 10 years depending in storage conditions.