Hazardous Waste Disposal for Auto Repair Shops
Keep Your Auto Shop EPA-Compliant with Professional Waste Management
Auto repair shops generate multiple types of hazardous and regulated waste every day. From used motor oil and antifreeze to spent solvents and contaminated shop towels, proper disposal is required by EPA and state regulations. Hazardous Waste Disposal has been helping auto shops nationwide stay compliant since 1992.
Call (800) 582-4833 for auto shop waste disposal services or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com
Common Auto Shop Waste We Handle
Used Motor Oil
The most common waste at auto shops. Used motor oil is regulated and must be properly recycled or disposed of.
What we handle:
Conventional motor oil
Synthetic motor oil
Diesel engine oil
Two-stroke oil
Contaminated oil (mixed with water, coolant, or solvents)
EPA Requirements: Used oil generators must store oil in proper containers, prevent contamination, and maintain records. We provide compliant collection and recycling services.
Spent Shop Towels & Rags
Oil-soaked towels, rags contaminated with solvents, and wipers used for parts cleaning are hazardous waste or universal waste depending on your state.
What we handle:
Oil-soaked towels
Solvent-contaminated rags
Parts cleaning wipers
Disposable shop towels
Service Options: Regular pickup with approved containers. Laundry service available in some areas for reusable towels.
Antifreeze & Coolant
Ethylene glycol antifreeze is toxic and regulated. Proper disposal or recycling is required.
What we handle:
Used antifreeze
Contaminated coolant
Radiator flush solutions
Mixed glycol types
Recycling Available: Clean antifreeze can often be recycled, reducing disposal costs.
Oil Filters
Used oil filters must be drained and disposed of properly. Some states allow landfill disposal after draining; others require recycling.
What we handle:
Engine oil filters
Transmission filters
Hydraulic filters
Fuel filters
We provide: Proper collection containers and compliant disposal or recycling.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is hazardous due to its toxicity and flammability characteristics.
What we handle:
DOT 3 brake fluid
DOT 4 brake fluid
DOT 5 silicone fluid
Contaminated brake fluid
Transmission Fluid
Similar to motor oil, transmission fluid must be properly managed and cannot be mixed with other fluids.
What we handle:
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
Manual transmission fluid
CVT fluid
Power steering fluid
Solvents & Parts Cleaners
Solvents used for degreasing and parts cleaning are flammable hazardous waste.
What we handle:
Parts washer solvent
Degreasing chemicals
Carburetor cleaners
Brake cleaners
Contact cleaners
Paint & Body Shop Waste
Auto body shops generate additional waste streams requiring special handling.
What we handle:
Paint (automotive finishes)
Lacquers and clear coats
Primers and sealers
Thinners and reducers
Spray gun wash
Masking materials
Sanding dust (may be hazardous)
Paint filters
Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are universal waste and must be recycled.
What we handle:
Car batteries
Truck batteries
Marine batteries
Hybrid vehicle batteries
Free recycling available in many areas
Gasoline
Contaminated gasoline from fuel system repairs or tank cleanings.
What we handle:
Stale gasoline
Water-contaminated fuel
Tank sludge
Fuel system flush
Aerosol Cans
Partially full aerosol cans are universal waste.
What we handle:
Brake cleaner cans
Lubricant sprays
Paint aerosols
Carburetor cleaner cans
Air Conditioning Refrigerants
While not hazardous waste, R-12 and other refrigerants require EPA-certified recovery. We can coordinate proper handling.
Mercury Switches
Older vehicles contain mercury switches in hoods, trunks, and ABS systems. These must be removed and properly disposed of.
EPA Regulations for Auto Shops
Are You a Hazardous Waste Generator?
If your auto shop generates more than 220 pounds (about 27 gallons) of hazardous waste per month, you're a Small Quantity Generator (SQG) and must:
Register with EPA: Obtain an EPA ID number Proper Storage: Use compatible, closed containers with hazardous waste labels Time Limits: Remove waste within 180 days (270 days if disposal facility is >200 miles away) Training: Ensure employees understand proper waste handling Emergency Plans: Have spill response procedures Record keeping: Maintain manifests and disposal records for 3 years
Very Small Quantity Generator (VSQG)
If you generate less than 220 pounds per month, you're a VSQG with fewer requirements but still must:
Identify waste properly
Store waste safely
Ensure waste goes to appropriate facilities
State Requirements
Many states have stricter requirements than federal EPA. We stay current with all state regulations and ensure your auto shop remains compliant.
Our Auto Shop Service Options
Regular Scheduled Pickup
Monthly, quarterly, or annual service scheduled around your shop's needs.
Benefits:
Never worry about accumulation time limits
Predictable costs
Consistent compliance
Reduced liability
One-Time Pickup
For shops with occasional needs or annual cleanouts.
Perfect for:
Shop relocations
Annual cleanouts
Selling your business
Inventory reductions
Emergency Service
When you need immediate pickup due to:
EPA inspections
Facility sale
Lease termination
Contamination events
Available within 24-48 hours in most areas
Drum & Container Supply
We provide DOT-approved containers for your waste:
5-gallon pails
15-gallon drums
30-gallon drums
55-gallon drums
Specialty containers for specific waste types
Why Auto Shops Choose Us
We Understand Your Business
Over 30 years working with auto repair shops means we know your waste streams, busy times, and compliance concerns.
Transparent Pricing
Flat-rate pricing for common services. No hidden fees or surprise charges.
Complete Paperwork Handling
We fill out all manifests and EPA forms. You just review and sign.
Fast Service
We work around your schedule and provide prompt pickup when you need it.
All-Inclusive Service
Pickup, transportation, disposal, documentation—everything included in one price.
Compliance Peace of Mind
Stay compliant with EPA, DOT, and state regulations without becoming an expert yourself.
Common Auto Shop Scenarios
Small Independent Shop
A 2-bay shop generates about 100 gallons of waste annually. We provide an annual pickup with all necessary containers. The shop stores waste properly throughout the year, and we handle disposal and documentation once yearly. Cost: $500-$800/year.
Medium Auto Repair Facility
A 6-bay shop with tire service generates 50-75 gallons of used oil monthly plus shop towels, antifreeze, and filters. We provide quarterly pickup service with ongoing supplies. Cost: $300-$500/quarter.
Large Auto Body Shop
A busy body shop generates paint waste, solvents, and booth filters weekly. We provide monthly pickup with specialized paint waste containers and body shop-specific solutions. Cost: $800-$1,500/month.
Auto Shop Compliance Tips
Storage Best Practices:
Keep containers closed except when adding waste
Store in secondary containment (catch basins)
Keep incompatible wastes separated
Label everything clearly with "Hazardous Waste" and contents
Mark accumulation start dates
Keep storage areas away from drains
Spill Prevention:
Use drip pans under work
Keep spill cleanup materials handy
Train staff on spill response
Report reportable quantity spills immediately
Employee Training:
Train all staff on waste identification
Teach proper storage procedures
Review emergency response procedures
Document all training
Record Keeping:
Keep all waste manifests for 3 years minimum
Maintain disposal certificates
Document employee training
Track waste generation quantities
Auto Shop Waste Disposal Costs
Pricing depends on:
Waste types and quantities
Service frequency
Your location
Container needs
Special handling requirements
Typical Ranges:
Used oil disposal: $2-$5 per gallon (recycling often FREE)
Shop towel service: $50-$150 per pickup
Antifreeze disposal: $3-$7 per gallon
Solvent disposal: $5-$15 per gallon
Paint waste: $8-$20 per gallon
Full-service monthly pickup: $300-$1,500 depending on volume
Call (800) 582-4833 for a custom quote for your shop
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I mix different types of oil together? A: Yes, motor oil, transmission fluid, and hydraulic oil can usually be mixed for disposal. Don't mix with antifreeze, solvents, or gasoline.
Q: How should I store used oil? A: In closed containers, protected from weather, with secondary containment, away from incompatible materials.
Q: Do I need an EPA ID number? A: Yes, if you generate more than 220 pounds of hazardous waste per month or accumulate more than 2,200 pounds at any time.
Q: Can I dump oil filters in the trash? A: Only after properly draining for 24 hours, and only if your state allows it. Many states require filter recycling.
Q: What happens if I'm caught disposing waste improperly? A: EPA fines start at $37,500 per violation per day, plus potential criminal charges and cleanup costs.
Q: How often should waste be picked up? A: Small shops: annually. Medium shops: quarterly. Large shops: monthly or more often.
Q: Can you pick up small quantities? A: Yes, we service shops of all sizes, from one-time 5-gallon pickups to regular bulk service.
Get Started with Auto Shop Waste Service
Call (800) 582-4833 or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com
What to have ready:
Types of waste you generate
Approximate monthly quantities
Current storage situation
Desired service frequency
Your shop location
We'll provide:
Custom quote for your shop
Container recommendations
Service schedule options
All necessary paperwork
Compliance guidance
Serving auto repair shops nationwide since 1992