The popular slogan "Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle" can also apply to certain vehicle components. Several foreign auto manufacturers are building plants where cars will be taken apart and reusable materials will be salvaged. By the year 2000, one foreign manufacturer plans to be able to recycle all the scrap from an old car. Unfortunately, U.S. manufacturers have no such plans at this time, so the responsibility to recycle still rests with the consumer.

1. Motor Oil and Transmission Fluid

According to EPA, "the oil from just one oil change is enough to contaminate a million gallons of fresh water." Motor oil and transmission fluids are toxic substances. Toxic substances may cause injury or death when ingested, inhaled, or touched, depending on dose and length of exposure.

Oil can and should be recycled and reused as fuel. Two gallons of used oil can provide a utility boiler with enough fuel to run the average household's electricity for about 24 hours. By recycling, you can prevent soil and water contamination, as well as damage to septic systems and wastewater treatment facilities. To recycle used motor oil and transmission fluid, take them to a service station, drop-off location, or household hazardous waste collection site. Keep all automotive fluids separate from each other.

Gasoline, power steering fluid, and wiper fluid should be completely used up. Gasoline and wiper fluids are toxic and flammable. Power steering fluid is toxic. If it is not completely used, be sure to store it safely and take it to a household hazardous waste collection location. Keep all automotive fluids separate from each other. Recycling gasoline, power steering fluid, and wiper fluid prevents soil and water contamination and reduces the risk of exposure to benzene and fire.