Stormwater pollution from cars and other vehicles

Vehicle Maintenance

Stormwater runoff, or rainwater that flows off streets, driveways, and parking lots, often picks up pollutants before entering storm drains and local waterways without treatment. Vehicle maintenance plays a crucial role in reducing this pollution. Here are some simple tips to keep your car in good shape and protect our water:

1. Prevent and Fix Leaks

Oil, coolant, brake fluid, and other vehicle fluids can leak and wash into storm drains during rainstorms. These chemicals can harm fish, wildlife, and our drinking water supply. Check your car regularly for leaks and fix them right away.

Tip: Park on a mat or drip tray if you see any leaks. This will prevent chemicals from washing away during rain.

2. Dispose of Used Fluids Properly

If you change your vehicle’s oil or other fluids at home, don’t pour them down the drain or on the ground. Instead, take them to a designated recycling center. Many local automotive shops also accept used oil and other fluids for recycling.

Tip: Check with your city or county’s waste management program to find local disposal sites.

3. Keep Tires Properly Inflated

Under-inflated tires wear down faster, releasing more rubber particles that can wash into storm drains. Properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency, reduce brake dust, and help prevent pollutants from entering waterways.

Tip: Check your tire pressure regularly and keep it at the recommended level for your vehicle.

4. Drive Wisely

Aggressive driving habits, such as hard braking and rapid acceleration, increase tire and brake wear, which can release metals and pollutants into the environment. Driving smoothly extends your car’s life and reduces stormwater pollution.

Tip: Avoid unnecessary idling to reduce emissions, pollutants, and wear on your engine.

5. Wash Your Car Responsibly

Washing your car on the street or driveway can send soap, oils, and dirt into storm drains. Consider taking your car to a commercial car wash, where water is treated and recycled. If washing at home, park on grass or gravel, which can help absorb and filter runoff.

Tip: Use biodegradable soap and a bucket to reduce the impact on the environment.

6. Pick Up Litter Around Storm Drains

If you notice trash or debris around storm drains, pick it up to prevent it from washing into our waterways. Even small items, like cigarette butts, can be harmful when they reach rivers and streams.

Tip: Join community clean-up events or adopt a storm drain to help keep our neighborhood clean.

Did you know? Streets, roads, and highways are the primary mode for moving goods, people, and services, but also can carry stormwater runoff pollutants from cars, trucks, and buses, including:

  • copper, lead and other heavy metals from tires, brakes, and engine wear, and

  • antifreeze

  • oils

    If the pollutants are not properly controlled, they can impair waters causing them to no longer support the water's designated uses. (i.e. drinking water, recreation, irrigation, etc.)