How to Recycle Used Motor Oil

Motor oil is never permanently worn out and dirty, it can be recycled and used many times over. If disposed of improperly, the oil will pollute soil and groundwater, and make its way into the San Diego River and out to the ocean.

If you already change your oil, saving it for recycling is just a matter of draining the oil into the right kind of container, sealing it with a proper lid and bringing it to a State Certified Used Oil Collection Center—you'll even get 4 cents for each quart you recycle.

Tips when saving motor oil to recycle:

• Use a clean plastic container with a tight lid

• Don't mix the oil with other chemicals or substances.

• Must be 5-gallon or smaller container.

• You may only recycle 5-20 gallons per day, per person.

Local state-authorized used oil collection centers include , and Edco on Federal Boulevard. It is suggested that you call the shop before bringing in oil.

This “living green” tip only really applies if you change your own oil—any responsible shop will recycle it when they change your oil.

If you have any questions about recycling used motor oil, call the California Integrated Waste Management Board Recycling Hotline at  1-800-CLEANUP.