Where Does The Oil From My Car Go After It's Flushed Out?

We've all been there – that moment during a routine oil change when the old, dark, and somewhat murky engine oil is drained from our cars. But have you ever wondered - "Where does that used oil go next?" or something along those lines? It's a journey that's not only fascinating but also critical for the environment, so keep on reading if you want to find out more.

The First Stop - Oil Pan

After the mechanic or DIY enthusiast drains the used oil, it makes its way into the oil pan. This is usually a small reservoir at the bottom of your engine designed to hold the oil until it's pumped back through the engine. But once it's removed, the journey truly begins.

Collection Center - Recycling or Disposal?

Recycling Centers

The most environmentally friendly destination for used car oil is a recycling center. Here, the oil undergoes a meticulous cleaning process to remove contaminants like dirt and metal particles. Once purified, it can be re-refined into new oil or used in industrial burners to generate heat and electricity.

Re-Refining

This is where used oil gets a second chance at life. Re-refining involves removing impurities and additives, so it can be used as a base oil for new engine oil. The end product is often just as good as virgin oil, but it's more sustainable.

Industrial Uses

Some used oil finds its way to industrial burners. While this isn't the most environmentally friendly option, it's better than outright disposal. Used oil can provide a source of energy in certain manufacturing processes.

How Do They Dispose Of It

While responsible car owners and mechanics do their best to recycle used oil, not all of it ends up in recycling centers. Unfortunately, some used oil still finds its way into improper disposal methods, which can harm the environment.

Illegal Dumping: In some cases, used oil is illegally dumped into sewers, storm drains, or even onto the ground. This reckless behavior can contaminate soil, and water, and harm aquatic life.
Improper Disposal: Some individuals might dispose of used oil improperly by tossing it in the trash or simply letting it sit around. This poses environmental risks and is often illegal.

The Importance of Responsible Disposal

Properly managing used car oil is not just about being eco-conscious; it's also a matter of law in many places. Disposing of oil improperly can result in fines or penalties. So, whether you're a seasoned DIY mechanic or rely on professionals for your oil changes, ensuring responsible disposal is essential.

- Remember that oil does not dissolve in water and it can take decades before it starts to decompose and break down.

Oil changes, filters, and everything in between. Mountain Tech Inc. in Oregon City, OR, will be at your service no matter the problem!

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Why Does My Car Have a Burning Smell on The Long Downhills?

September 26, 2025

Driving downhill for an extended period puts unique demands on your vehicle, especially when it comes to braking and engine performance. If you’ve ever noticed a burning smell while descending a steep grade, it can be concerning. Sometimes the odor is harmless, but in other cases, it signals that your brakes, transmission, or other components are overheating. Knowing what causes these smells and how to address them can help you prevent damage and drive more safely. Brakes Overheating on Long Descents The most common source of a burning smell during downhill driving is overheated brakes. When you ride the brakes continuously, friction builds up between the brake pads and rotors, producing intense heat. This heat can cause the pads to emit a sharp, acrid odor as the material begins to break down. In extreme cases, overheated brakes can lead to brake fade — a condition where your braking power is reduced because the pads and rotors are too hot to function properly. If you notice a burning smell accompanied by reduced stopping ability, pull over safely and allow the brakes to cool before continuing. To prevent this, use engine braking whenever possible. Downshift to a lower gear to let your engine help control speed rather than relying entirely on the brake pedal. This reduces stress on your braking system and keeps temperatures in check. Transmission Fluid Overheating If your car has an automatic transmission, long downhill drives can sometimes overwork the transmission and cause its fluid to overheat. Transmission fluid helps cool and lubricate internal parts, but when it gets too hot, it can produce a distinctive burnt odor. This is more likely if you’re carrying a heavy load or towing while descending a steep grade. An overheating transmission can lead to significant wear if ignored, so if you notice a persistent burning smell combined with gear slipping or delayed shifting, have the system inspected as soon as possible. Burning Smells From the Clutch For vehicles with manual transmissions, a burning smell on downhills may come from an overheated clutch. This happens if you ride the clutch pedal or keep partial pressure on it while trying to control your speed. The friction between the clutch disc and flywheel generates heat, which produces a noticeable odor. To avoid clutch overheating, fully engage or fully release the pedal rather than “feathering” it. Downshifting properly and letting the engine handle more of the braking can also help reduce stress on the clutch. Engine Oil or Coolant Leaks Sometimes the burning smell isn’t related to the brakes or transmission at all. Engine oil or coolant can leak onto hot engine components, such as the exhaust manifold, where it burns and produces strong odors. An oil leak typically creates a thick, bitter smell, while burning coolant produces a sweet, syrupy scent. If the smell continues even after normal driving, or if you see smoke under the hood, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected. Ignoring leaks can lead to overheating, reduced engine performance, and costly repairs. Worn or Contaminated Brake Pads Even when you’re braking properly, worn or low-quality brake pads can overheat more easily on steep descents. Some pads use materials that produce stronger odors when hot, especially if they’ve absorbed contaminants like oil or grease. Replacing them with high-quality pads designed for your driving needs can minimize these smells and improve braking performance. How to Prevent Burning Smells on Downhills A few simple driving habits can make a big difference when it comes to avoiding overheating and burning odors: Use lower gears to take advantage of engine braking and reduce reliance on your brakes. Avoid riding the brakes for long stretches; apply firm, short braking instead. Check your brake system regularly to ensure pads, rotors, and fluid are in good condition. Inspect for leaks if burning smells persist after normal driving conditions. These steps reduce strain on critical systems and help maintain control during extended downhill driving. Expert Brake and Transmission Care at Mountain Tech Inc. If you’ve noticed a burning smell while driving downhill, let the team at Mountain Tech Inc. in Oregon City, OR, inspect your vehicle. Our technicians can determine whether the odor comes from overheated brakes, transmission fluid, the clutch, or leaking engine fluids, and we’ll address the issue before it leads to bigger problems. Schedule an appointment with Mountain Tech Inc. today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your vehicle is ready for every climb and descent.