How much do you know about engine oil or about motor oil? Like, were you aware that motor oil can be recycled as a valuable resource, since it does not wear down? Or that only about 10 to 15 percent of the motor oil in the U.S. is refined, compared with 50 percent in Europe? That region’s motor oil standards are higher, meaning greater care is taken in preserving this resource.

What you know about API motor oil standards could help significantly if you work on cars or care for your own. Because used motor oil can be toxic to the environment. For instance, just one oil change could affect 1 million gallons of fresh water if not disposed of properly. By understanding the standards, you can conduct the best oil change service or find car oil change locations that take care to properly dispose of their engine oil.