Auto Fluids Household Hazardous Waste Automotive fluids are classified as household hazardous waste (HHW) and should not be placed in the recycling or the trash or dumped down the drain. Some communities accept used and unused automotive fluids at HHW collection sites and events, and so do some automotive repair shops. Contact your local recycling coordinator to learn about HHW collection opportunities near you. Used Oil Recycling: New York State law requires numerous service and retail locations to accept used oil from household DIYs for recycling. CLICK HERE to learn more about used oil recycling. Never Dump Down the Drain Auto fluids, such as brake fluid and motor oil, can contaminate lakes and rivers, so never dump them in the trash or down the drain. Instead, dispose of them as hazardous waste.