Disposing of OLD DOT-4 fluid?

[DMC5180]

With the need to periodically flush the Clutch and Brake hydraulics. I was wondering what the PROPER method of fluid disposal is? I've been accumulating the stuff in old fluid containers for years and it's time to get rid of it. Should the stuff be kept separate from used oil?

[David T]

It all depends on the place where you take the used oil. In New Jersey any store that sells stuff that must be recycled (like oil, batteries, and anti-freeze) MUST either accept the old stuff or have some kind of arrangement with someone who will. Many places that accept old motor oil will also accept brake fluid mixed in. Some want it separate. Local rules apply so you must check it out. Start with where you bought the brake fluid, they should know how the old stuff gets disposed of. Next check a local gas station. Finally check your local DPW.
David Teitelbaum




With the need to periodically flush the Clutch and Brake hydraulics. I was wondering what the PROPER method of fluid disposal is? I've been accumulating the stuff in old fluid containers for years and it's time to get rid of it. Should the stuff be kept separate from used oil?

[Dangermouse]

My local quick lube place takes any dino based liquid (motor oil, tranny oil, ps fluid) is the same container. I think they take antifreeze also, but that goes in a separate container.

They make money selling the oil back, and they actually charged me $2.50 to "recycle" my old oil filter on my DD, which I thought was a bit much. When pressed, the sales guy admitted that they just drain the oil out and drop the filter in another barrel. Which presumably they then sell or get rid of to a scrap metal dealer.

[DMC5180]

My local quick lube also takes used motor oils and antifreeze (separate containers of coarse) at NO charge (state law). Brake fluid is kind of a different animal, which is why I asked the question.

[David T]

In some States the shop must have a crusher and they have to crush the filters to get as much oil out of them as possible before disposing of them. Anti-freeze in most places has to be kept separate, same as old fuel. Local rules apply and they do change from time-to-time so you must ask your local people. It is not good to save up large quantities, many places do not like you bringing gallons of stuff at a time. In many States they have a once a year hazardous waste collection site for homeowners. Check with your Town or County. Many gas stations want your used oil. They have heaters that they use in the Winter to heat the place with the free used oil. That's the main reason you can't mix in anti-freeze or fuel!
David Teitelbaum

[stevedmc]

With the need to periodically flush the Clutch and Brake hydraulics. I was wondering what the PROPER method of fluid disposal is? I've been accumulating the stuff in old fluid containers for years and it's time to get rid of it. Should the stuff be kept separate from used oil?

Do you have any pesky stray cats in your neighborhood?

[Dangermouse]

I note that my 2010 Dodge still recommends DOT 3 in its manual! No stopping progress at Chrysler 😄

[DMC5180]

Do you have any pesky stray cats in your neighborhood?

Nope, But I do have a barking dog next door that I'd like to silence permanently. :evilgrin: