Every time you get an oil change, your engine gets fresh, clean oil to keep it running healthy. But have you ever wondered what happens to the old oil that gets drained out? Many drivers assume that used motor oil is simply discarded, but in reality, it’s one of the most commonly recycled automotive fluids.
Properly disposing of used motor oil is not only good for the environment, but it also allows the oil to be cleaned, refined, and reused in various ways. Let’s take a closer look at how used oil is handled and why recycling it is essential.
Why Can’t Used Motor Oil Just Be Thrown Away
Unlike other automotive fluids, motor oil doesn’t wear out—it just gets dirty. Over time, heat, metal particles, and contaminants build up in the oil, making it less effective at lubricating and protecting your engine. However, even after it has been drained from a vehicle, used motor oil can still be processed and reused.
Simply throwing away motor oil is dangerous and illegal in most places. Just one gallon of used oil can contaminate a million gallons of water, making it one of the most harmful pollutants if not handled properly. Pouring oil down a drain or onto the ground can damage ecosystems, poison wildlife, and seep into drinking water supplies.
How Is Used Motor Oil Recycled
Instead of discarding it, most repair shops and recycling centers send used motor oil through a refining process to remove contaminants and restore its usability. The process includes:
- Collection – Used oil is gathered from repair shops, dealerships, and collection centers.
- Filtration and Treatment – Contaminants like metal particles, sludge, and dirt are removed.
- Re-Refining or Repurposing – The cleaned oil is re-refined into fresh motor oil or repurposed for other uses.
Since oil can be recycled over and over again, it reduces the need for new crude oil production and minimizes environmental waste.
What Is Used Motor Oil Turned Into
Once it has been processed, used motor oil can be repurposed in a variety of ways, including:
- Re-refined into new motor oil – Many oil manufacturers use recycled oil in their products, making it just as effective as brand-new oil.
- Converted into fuel – Some industrial facilities use recycled oil as an alternative energy source to power machines.
- Used in lubricants and hydraulic fluids – Recycled oil can be blended into various automotive and industrial lubricants.
This process helps conserve natural resources while preventing harmful pollutants from entering the environment.
How to Make Sure Your Oil Gets Recycled
If you change your own oil at home, you can take a few simple steps to ensure it’s disposed of properly:
- Store it in a sealed container – Use an old oil jug or a leak-proof plastic bottle.
- Take it to a recycling center or auto shop – Many repair shops, including Mr. Best Wrench, collect used oil for proper disposal.
- Never mix oil with other fluids – Contaminated oil can’t be recycled and must be disposed of as hazardous waste.
By recycling your oil instead of throwing it away, you help protect the environment and support sustainable automotive practices.
Need an Oil Change? Visit Mr. Best Wrench
Routine oil changes are essential for keeping your engine healthy, and recycling used motor oil ensures it doesn’t go to waste. We provide fast, professional oil changes while ensuring that your used oil is handled responsibly.
Protect your engine and the environment! Get a professional oil change at
Mr. Best Wrench, where we recycle every drop. Call now!
