Tips on Recycling Car Fluids

Whether you are a do-it-yourselfer (DIY) or a loyal auto repair shop patron, make sure whoever is changing your car fluids is following these simple steps:

DIY

• Check your owner’s manual and change fluids only when recommended.
• If there is a spill, use an absorbent material like sawdust or cat litter to clean up the spill and dispose of properly.
• Allow the filters to fully drain, then recycle these along with the used fluids.
• Never dump fluids into drains, ditches, septic systems, sewers, dry wells, trash or the ground. It is illegal to do so in many states.
• Keep each fluid separate. If the fluids mix, recycling becomes much more difficult or even impossible.
• Put all fluids into clean, sealed, leak-proof containers. Do not use containers that once held chemicals, food, drinks or other liquids.
• Keep children and pets away from fluid draining and storage areas.
• Shop green – ask where your fluids will go after they are removed and collected.
• Use Earth911’s recycling locator to find a recycling or proper disposal location near you. Many auto shops will accept up to five gallons of used motor fluid per person per day.

Auto Shop

• Check your owner’s manual and change fluids only when recommended.
• Ask for recycled fluids – many facilities can recycle antifreeze onsite and can provide recycled oil.
• Shop green – ask where your fluids will go after they are removed.