The paper presents the results of the analysis of the content of selected heavy metals in used engine
oils collected in car service stations during oil change. The main purpose of the research was to determine the
difference in heavy metal content (Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Zn, Hg, Cd) depending on the engine type and oil change
interval. The analysis comprised 80 samples of used engine oils obtained from passenger cars. The content of heavy
metals was tested with use of the HDMaxine analyzer, operating on the basis of HDXRF (High-Definition X-Ray
Fluorescence). Upon analyzing the differences in the average content of the examined elements, depending on the
type of engine, it can be concluded that in oils coming from diesel engines the following elements showed a higher
concentration – Cr (three times), Fe (1/3 times ), Ni (two times), Pb (1/2 times), whereas in oils coming from
gasoline engines, only the average Cu content was higher (¾ times). Zinc had a comparable level of concentration.
The multi-factor analysis of variance showed that in diesel engines the levels of Fe, Cr, Pb and Ni are statistically
significantly different than in the reference group of gasoline engines. The study findings suggest that, depending
on the engine type, the content of selected heavy metal elements in used oils varies. Therefore, to ensure proper
handling of waste oils and reduce environmental risk, selective collection of used oils depending on the engine
type may definitely be considered.