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Ed Yeates Reporting...The tiny switch that turns on a car’s under-the-hood light is in nearly half of the two million cars registered in the state. Though each switch contains only a gram of mercury, that adds up to hundreds of pounds of the stuff riding around in vehicles.
Rolayne Fairclough / Utah AAA: "IN FACT, THE MERCURY FROM ONE SWITCH CAN POLLUTE A 20 ACRE LAKE. SO, IT'S FAIRLY SIGNIFICANT WHAT THIS MERCURY CAN DO."
The capsule containing the mercury could be easily punctured during a rear end collision or when the car is finally crushed for recycling.
If you drive a domestic car that was manufactured before 2001, or an import car that was manufactured in the early 1990's, a mercury switch is most likely under the hood or in the trunk of your car.
Triple AAA is currently replacing the switches free of charge - at these locations in Salt Lake City and Richfield. Though there's no cost, you should call to make an appointment.
Mastertech Automotive, 1717 South State Street, Salt Lake City
Peak Performance Automotive, 2810 South 400 West, Salt Lake City
Mike's Auto Clinic, 1075 South 75 East, Richfield
