Looking to recycle automotive fluids? Find a location to recycle automotive fluids like transmission fluid, antifreeze, and motor oil using our recycling locator below.
Some car fluids like transmission fluid, power steering fluid, gear oil, motor oil and antifreeze can be processed and recycled into new fluids. Fuel and other flammable liquids are considered hazardous and, therefore, must be stored and disposed of properly, but many of them can be recycled or reused as alternative fuels.
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Frequent Automotive Fluids Recycling Questions
I changed my own fluids. Can I throw them in the trash?
No. Some government jurisdictions classify used motor oil and other auto fluids as hazardous waste and require proper disposal by law.
Every gallon of used motor oil that is improperly discarded can contaminate 1 million gallons of drinking water, according to the EPA. Motor oil also never wears out, but rather gets dirty, so it can be recycled and resold.
Where can used auto fluids be taken for recycling?
Many auto parts stores accept use motor oil and other auto fluids for recycling or disposal, but some have stricter requirements than others regarding transportation of the fluids.
Some collection points accept used oil in original motor oil bottles or even household containers with secure lids, while others require the use of sealed specialty containers, also available at most auto parts stores. Use our recycling locator below to find a collection location near you. You can also use our Recycling Search to find locations near you that accept car fluids.
If your motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, or antifreeze has been contaminated with any other fluids most locations will not accept it for recycling. If this has happened to you, you should reach out to your city or county household hazardous waste (HHW) location to see if they will dispose of it properly. Find a HHW location near you.