If you’re interested in learning some basic vehicle maintenance, changing your engine oil is one of the first things you’ll need to master. But as well as tracking down the right replacement, you’ll also need to dispose of the used oil, and this isn’t as simple as pouring it down the drain. Keep reading as we run through how to safely dispose of old engine oil in more detail.
When Should I Change My Engine Oil?
Throughout its life, the oil in your car absorbs dust and dirt, changing both the texture and chemical makeup, and making it less effective in your vehicle. Here are the key signs that your engine oil needs changing:
- A rapidly falling oil level
- Your engine is noisier than usual
- The oil takes on a strange texture
- The oil appears black and thick like tar
- More visible exhaust fumes
- The “check engine light” comes on
- Irregular noise when you start your engine
What To Do With Old Engine Oil
If you’re changing your oil at home, you’ll need an oil spill kit to hand so you can safely clean up any mess, and we recommend a pair of protective gloves too.
It’s vital that you don’t pour your oil down a sink or down the drain at your home – this will cause pollution and is actually against the law in the UK. You can’t just take it to your local tip either, unless the relevant recycling unit is there. Instead, collect the old engine oil in a safe container, like an oil drain pan, and take it to your local oil bank.
Find Your Local Engine Oil Bank
There are over 1,000 different engine oil banks across the UK, which are part of a council-run recycling network. To find your nearest engine oil bank, enter your post code into the search bar over at recyclenow, or use the location button, and hit ‘search’. You’ll then be provided with a list of recycling banks near your address, where you can safely get rid of your used engine oil.
Engine Oil at Euro Car Parts
Finding the right engine oil for your car couldn’t be easier with Euro Car Parts – just pop your registration number into our Fast Finder tool, and we’ll show you a list of products compatible with your exact make and model.
If you don’t feel confident replacing (or disposing of) your engine oil at home, you can make the most of our Fit It For Me service. Our mechanics are happy to change your engine oil, providing you’re getting your oil filters changed at the same time – and they’ll safely dispose of the old engine oil afterwards.
