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Published on April 2nd, 2007

How to Collect and Recycle Your Used Motor Oil

by Earth911

What is used motor oil?

According to the U.S. EPA, used motor oil is any petroleum-based or synthetic oil that has been used for vehicle lubrication. As a result of normal use, motor oil becomes contaminated with various impurities such as dirt, water, chemicals or metals from your engine. Some governmental jurisdictions classify used motor oil as hazardous. It may contain additives (e.g. rust inhibitors), contaminants (e.g. heavy metals generated through engine wear, or externally introduced materials such as PCBs from old transformer oils), potentially carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic compounds (from the fuel combustion process), or glycol leaked from the cooling system. Because of these “impurities,” used motor oil should be handled with care and disposed of correctly to ensure the safety of the local community, environment and waterways.

Tips on Collecting Your Used Motor Oil

  • Once you are finished draining the oil from your car’s crankcase, pour the used motor oil into a clean, leak proof container with a screw-top lid or use a drip pan that serves as both a collection and holding container. Check with your local collection center to determine what types of containers they can accommodate. Some collection centers may want you to leave behind the container for disposal if they are not set up to empty it immediately on site.
  • Containers specifically designed to hold used motor oil can be purchased at your local automotive supply store.
  • Certain everyday household containers can also be used for used motor oil collection, including milk and water jugs or the original motor oil bottles. DO NOT use a container that previously held household chemicals, such as cleaners, solvents, fuels (gasoline), paint or bleach.
  • Make sure the chosen storage container has a secure lid so motor oil will not spill or leak.
  • Keep the collection containers clean.
  • Always clearly label the container “Used Motor Oil”.
  • Keep collected used motor oil out of reach of children and pets at all times.
Earth911

Earth911

Earth911.com delivers actionable local information on recycling and product stewardship that empowers consumers to act locally, live responsibly and contribute to sustainability.

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