IT turns out that changing your car’s oil on the front lawn might not just tune up your vehicle — it could also give your drinking water a hint of diesel and despair.
Redland City Council is warning Redlands Coast residents that fuel and oil spills can make their way into underground plumbing pipes and affect the taste of household water.
“Changing your car’s oil on the front lawn may help your car run better, but there is a chance it could end up leaving a bad taste in your mouth,” the Council said.
The warning comes as part of National Water Week 2025, reminding locals that their home maintenance habits might be turning their lawns into chemical cocktails.
Household plastic pipes laid underground can absorb chemicals such as petrol, diesel, oil, turps, methylated spirits and some pesticides if they are spilled or sprayed on the ground.
“Do not drink the water if you believe this has occurred,” Council cautioned.
Before assuming you’ve discovered a new “premium unleaded” flavour of tap water, residents are encouraged to check with their neighbours to see if they’re also experiencing a strange taste or odour.
“It is advisable to check with your neighbours to confirm if they are experiencing a similar taste or odour from their drinking water. If the taste or odour is isolated to your property, you will need to contact a licensed plumber to assist in resolving this issue. If your neighbours are also experiencing the issue, call Council on 07 3829 8999.”
And while it might seem convenient to park your boat or car on the grass to tinker with the engine, it’s not doing your plumbing any favours.
“Remember to be careful where you work on your car and to always use a drip tray or bucket large enough to catch spills, and be sure to dispose of motor oils correctly,” Council said.
The same warning applies to boats — not only can engine work spill oil and fuel, but the weight of boats or vehicles can crush underground pipes.
For those now wondering what to do with their leftover oil, Council has kindly offered a cleaner option than “accidental lawn marinade.”
Residents can recycle up to 20 litres of waste motor oil per visit free of charge at any of the city’s recycling and waste centres (except Karragarra and Lamb islands).
Petrol, in sealed containers, can also be taken to the hazardous waste collection area at Redland Bay Recycling and Waste Centre.
“Remember: Never pour engine oil down the drain, this can cause serious damage and injure marine life.”
So, unless you’re planning to market a new “ocean breeze with hints of octane” flavour, it’s probably best to keep your oil in the garage and your water in the glass.
More information is available on Council’s waste and recycling webpage.
National Water Week runs until October 26 and aims to remind everyone that water must be used wisely. For more tips, visit Council’s City Water webpage.
