- 1Allow transmission to cool completely (fluid operates at 175-200°F)
- 2Drain into clean container using proper equipment
- 3Store in original transmission fluid container or clearly labeled container
- 4Keep separate from motor oil and other automotive fluids
- 5Include used transmission filter if removed
- 6Label with fluid type (ATF, CVT, manual gear oil)
- 7Store away from heat sources and in secure area
- Auto parts stores (many accept with motor oil)
- Transmission specialty shops
- Quick-lube facilities that service transmissions
- Municipal hazardous waste facilities
- Oil recycling centers and collection points
Never mix with motor oil, brake fluid, or coolant - contamination makes entire batch hazardous waste. Different transmission fluid types (ATF, CVT, manual) can be mixed for recycling. CVT fluid is more specialized and may have different disposal requirements.
Contains synthetic base oils and additives harmful to aquatic life. Like motor oil, can be re-refined indefinitely through distillation and filtering. Recycling saves 85% of energy versus new production and prevents groundwater contamination.
Accepted
- Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) - all types
- CVT (continuously variable transmission) fluid
- Manual transmission gear oil
- Power steering fluid (usually same as ATF)
- Differential oil and gear lubricants
- Used transmission filters (drained)
Not Accepted
- Fluid contaminated with coolant or brake fluid
- Heavily contaminated fluid with metal particles
- Unknown fluid types or mixtures
- Transmission fluid mixed with motor oil (reduces recycling value)
Estimated value: $0 - usually accepted for free with motor oil recycling programs
- Synthetic base oils
- Friction modifiers
- Anti-wear additives
- Detergent and dispersant packages
- Seal conditioners and leak-stop additives
Can I mix transmission fluid with motor oil for recycling?
It's better to keep them separate when possible, but most recycling facilities can process them together. Mixing doesn't make it hazardous waste like mixing with coolant or brake fluid would.
How often should transmission fluid be changed?
Varies by vehicle: some manufacturers say 'lifetime' (actually 100,000+ miles), others recommend 30,000-60,000 miles. Severe conditions (towing, city driving) require more frequent changes.
Is CVT fluid different for recycling?
CVT fluid has different additives but can be recycled through the same process as regular ATF. Some facilities may prefer it separated due to specialized additive packages.