Car enthusiasts and casual drivers share a common bond: a love for our vehicles. In Los Angeles, we use our vehicles for just about everything from setting up shop to listening to a bop. Depending on the day, you may even spend more time on the 405 than you do anywhere else. It should come as no surprise that we want to make sure our vehicles are well-maintained.
But, did you know that how you care for your car can have a surprising impact on the environment? From the driveway to detailing, we’re pointing out some simple things that we can all do to keep our cars well-maintained and our planet healthy. Let’s pop open the hood on taking care of your ride with eco-pride.
1. Changing Your Car’s Oil
Changing your oil yourself? Regular oil changes are essential for your car’s performance and longevity, but if you’re doing it yourself then be extra careful not to spill – spilled motor oil both stains your garage or driveway and contributes to stormwater pollution when it gets washed away by rain into our local waterways. Make sure to use a drip pan to catch every drop.
Don’t toss used motor oil. Pouring out or simply throwing away used motor oil is actually a significant source of pollution which harms out local waterways. Instead of simply tossing your used oil, store it in a sealed container and bring it to a certified household hazardous waste collection location. In particular, LA has SAFE Centers where residents can drop off theirused motor oil, free of charge.
2. Washing Your Car
A hidden hazard. Normally, a ‘do it yourself’ mentality goes hand in hand with being eco-conscious. It’s far more healthy for the environment if you create or upcycle an item yourself rather than go to get it from the store! That’s why it’s so surprising to people when they learn that washing your car yourself is actually a source of environmental harm. When you scrub off your car, all of the grime and chemicals and soaps flow directly into our local creeks, rivers and ocean, untreated.
Going for a car wash. Whenever possible, you should go to a commercial car wash to get your car washed. Commercial washes capture and ensure the proper treatment of the wastewater that is produced from washing your vehicle. Going to get your car washed not only ensures a thorough and professional job well done, but also protects our waterways from automotive and cleaning chemicals.
Still want to scrub down your car? If you insist on washing your car at home, we suggest that you opt for biodegradable and phosphate-free soaps to reduce the environmental impact of unsafe soaps. Additionally, washing your car on your lawn or a similarly permeable surface will help filter the water before it flows out to the sea.
3. Other Auto-Maintenance Quick-Tips
Detailing. When detailing your ride, try to keep a stock of reusable products such as microfiber cloths on hand so you aren’t wasting paper towels. Opt for natural cleaners such as vinegar solutions or else those with eco-friendly solutions. So-called ‘waterless wash’ solutions also provide an opportunity to conserve water when polishing up your vehicle.
Tire Pressure. Properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency, saving you money and reducing emissions.
Wiper Fluid. Windshield wiper fluid is actually a significant source of vehicle emissions. Wiper fluid should only be deployed in a windshield visibility emergency – by regularly washing your windows and keeping them nice and clean, you can avoid ever having to use this liquid pollutant.
The Bottom Line: Every Little Bit Helps.
By adopting these eco-friendly practices, you’re not just protecting your car—you’re doing your part to safeguard our city’s environment and its beauty. Ride in style and even drop the top down, knowing you helped keep that fresh air just a bit sweeter and cooler.
Do you recommend any methods or healthy car-care products that you’ve found effective? Share them with us at lastormwater@lacity.org, and we might feature them on our social media channels.
