How to safely dispose of engine oil and other automotive fluids

Automotive fluids such as motor oil, brake fluid and coolant are considered hazardous waste and should never be placed in kerbside rubbish bins or poured down drains.

Flammable liquid containers that are empty, such as oil bottles and old fuel containers, are also a risk if thrown into any kerbside rubbish bins and should be treated in the same way as hazardous liquid waste and taken to a Household Hazardous Waste facility.

If you have unused automotive fluids, there are collection facilities across the metropolitan area and in six regional centres across WA where they can be safely disposed of at no cost.

Only household automotive waste is accepted and only up to 20kg or 20lt per type of waste product.

In addition to being hazardous to human health and the environment, if disposed of incorrectly they also carry a fire risk.

Used motor oil, also known as sump oil, will be disposed of safely by your auto mechanic during servicing. As sump oil can be recycled for other purposes, RAC Auto Services sends all sump oil to a recycling service.

If you have sump oil you need to dispose of yourself, some automotive retailers will also accept it, however it’s recommended to call ahead to check the amount you have doesn’t exceed the maximum volumes accepted.

For a list of government collection facilities that accept hazardous waste, visit wasteauthority.wa.gov.au.

When transporting any hazardous liquid, ensure it’s in a container that’s fit-for-purpose, and is safely this should be in the boot, ute tray or a trailer. If transporting fuels and oils inside the vehicle, drive with at least one window open for ventilation.