How to Recycle Car Batteries

Car batteries can be recycled properly.

Car batteries contain a high amount of heavy lead as well as acid and parts made of plastic. These chemicals are harmful to the environment when not disposed of properly. The acid in car batteries may also cause skin irritation when not handled correctly. Precautions must be taken when disposing of old car batteries. There are several methods you can apply to recycle and dispose old car batteries.

Things You'll Need

• Safety goggles
• Gloves

Instructions

1. Bring the car battery to the shop where it was purchased. Most automotive stores that sell car batteries will also take them in for recycling. There may be a fee for this service, so do contact them and inquire.

2. Contact automotive repair shops in your area. Numerous auto repair shops will accept dead car batteries and will recycle them free of charge or for a small fee.

3. Drop off your old car battery at your local metal recycling center. Contact the recycling center to make sure they accept scrap car batteries. Some metal recyclers may pay you for your car battery.

4. Contact your nearest American Automobile Association branch to find out where and when you can drop off your old car battery. AAA usually accepts old car batteries for recycling during Earth Day around the month of April.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety goggles and gloves when handling car batteries.

• Place the car battery in a sturdy pail or container when transporting.

References

• Environment, Health and Safety Online: Battery Recycling and Disposal Guide for Households
• American Automobile Association: Dead Automotive Batteries Are More than Just a Nuisance
• Going Green Challenge: Recycle Batteries