Routine oil changes play an important role in keeping your car running in good shape, which helps it get the best fuel economy and minimizes air pollution and global warming emissions. But what about the impact of the oil changes themselves? According to the Environmental Protection Agency, nearly 200 million gallons of used motor oil are improperly disposed of in the United States each year. Used oil from just one oil change can contaminate one million gallons of water—a year’s supply for 50 people. Fortunately, used motor oil (whether it be from cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles, or lawn equipment) can be recycled to make new motor oil, processed into fuel oils, or used as raw materials for the petroleum industry. In fact, one gallon of used motor oil can yield the same 2.5 quarts of lubricating oil as 42 gallons of crude oil.
If you are one of the millions of do-it-yourself oil changers, here are some important steps to take to ensure the process is as clean as possible:
- After draining the oil, but before removing the drip pan from under the car, close and secure the drain plug and check for leaks.
- If you are changing the oil filter, drain it for a minimum of 12 hours into a clean plastic container with a tight-fitting lid (do not use a container that once held chemicals, food, or beverages). Then, carefully pour the oil from the drip pan into the container.
- Reuse your drip pan; do not rinse residual oil down the drain or into your yard.
- If you do accidentally spill any oil, use an absorbent material like sawdust or cat litter to clean up the spill and dispose of it properly.
Used motor oil (from cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles, or lawn equipment) can be recycled to make new motor oil—2.5 quarts of new lubricating oil can be made from one gallon of used motor oil—or processed into fuel oils or other materials. After you have changed your oil, take it to a local service station or recycling center that collects used motor oil for recycling (see related resources for a recycling directory). Some facilities will collect used filters as well; if not, ask your waste collection service if the filter can be disposed of with your household trash.
You may be able to further reduce your oil consumption (regardless of whether or not you do your own oil changes) by changing your oil less often. A 2008 study conducted by the California Integrated Waste Management Board shows that many vehicles can go more than the standard 3,000 miles between oil changes, depending on driving conditions and motor oil type. Before you skip your next oil change, however, be sure to follow your car manufacturer’s recommendations listed in the owner’s manual.
