How can I safely dispose of automotive chemicals?

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Press Release, March 22, 1996.
Jackie Starr-Bocian, (303) 692-2853.

You've finished tuning up your car, changed the oil, replaced the battery, and rotated and replaced worn tires. Now, what do you do with the leftovers -- that old battery, used tires and oil?

Even though you may be inclined to toss these products into the trash or down the drain . . . don't.

Car batteries, anti-freeze, used motor oil and tires all contain toxic chemicals which can contaminate groundwater and, in turn, affect fish, animals and water quality. Each can be recycled and should be handled in a specific way.

Discarded automotive products are being recycled for numerous uses. Batteries are recycled for their lead and used in new batteries and x-ray shields. Used motor oil is re-refined and used for marine fuel. Used tires are shredded and used as infill for banks along highways (Glenwood Canyon is one notable example); and reprocessed into rubber mats, parking blocks, sports surfaces and used for road resurfacing.

Caution and precautionary measures should be taken while storing and/or transporting the following automotive products. For instance, car batteries should be stored upright in a second container to limit acid leaching into the ground. Both used motor oil and anti-freeze should be collected in screw-top containers, so children and animals can't easily open. Tires are very flammable and emit toxic fumes and liquid by-products if they catch fire.

For the most part, automotive wastes can be taken to participating filling stations, oil and lube businesses and some garages. Many locally-operated landfills will also take these items.

Call the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment at (303) 692-2035 for more information on how you can help keep yourself and your community healthy through safe disposal of automotive waste.

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