So, automotive leaks, can pop up almost anywhere in your vehicle, from a number of different sources.
As a result, this can make it hard, to accurately identify the cause or even the source.
If you are seeing automotive leaks, this is often the first indication of problems and you need, to address them as soon as possible.
Because, if they are not taken seriously, they can lead to, serious consequences, ranging from minor repairs, to total engine failure. If you own a car, you’ll likely encounter a leak at some point, so it’s important to be able to identify what is leaking from your car and why.
To help you identify automotive leaks, we’ve put together a guide on how to pinpoint the source.
Common, Automotive Leaks
Below is a brief overview of the most common fluids known to leak:
Engine Oil
You should check the engine oil about once a week, when your car is still warm and sitting on level ground. Before checking your oil, turn off your engine and wait several minutes, to allow the oil to settle. Next, take out the dipstick and wipe it clean. Then, push the dipstick back in all the way, wait a moment, then take it out and inspect the level again. The engine oil should be between the two marks.
Engine Coolant
Also known as antifreeze, engine coolant is mixed together with water, to protect the radiator from overheating; in extremely high temperatures and freezing in extremely low ones. It is located under the hood of your vehicle; often toward the front and usually has, a colored cap. The cap may have the words “engine coolant” printed on it.
I recommend that you check the engine coolant levels once a week, if possible. Your coolant system is a sealed unit that constantly circulates coolant. Normally, the levels shouldn’t change much. If they do change, there may be a leak. Furthermore, low coolant levels, may cause a warning light on your dashboard to illuminate.
So, How Do You Identify, Automotive Leaks
A puddle, stain, or any other kind of moisture on the floor of your garage is; in the vast majority of cases, an indication of a leak in your vehicle. A fluid leak, is often a sign, that your car needs attention. That’s why, knowing how to identify; the most common kinds of automotive leaks, is a skill worth having.
Engine Oil Leaks
As engine oil tends to be more viscous than other vehicle fluids, it will often “seep” or “crawl” through the car engine’s other parts. When enough oil accumulates, it will begin to drip onto a driveway or the floor of your garage.
Engine oil tends to have a light amber or slightly brownish-yellow color. If the oil is older, however, it can be darker, typically a dark brown. If your oil hasn’t been changed in a really long time, it might appear black.
Engine Coolant Leaks
If you notice a greenish-colored puddle on your garage floor underneath your radiator, chances are that it’s engine coolant. We say “greenish-colored” because most antifreeze solutions are green. But, if you use antifreeze of another color, such as red, blue or orange; then that is the color that the stain should be.
If you’re having trouble determining the color of the stain, smell it and try to identify the odor. Antifreeze generally smells sweet due to the ethylene glycol it contains. An engine cooling system leak, can be caused by a number of factors. Common causes include, a damaged radiator or radiator hose.
Fuel Leaks
In some cases, you don’t even have to examine a stain or puddle on your garage floor to identify what the liquid is. Sometimes, the smell alone is a dead giveaway. If your leak smells like gasoline, then it is definitely gasoline. The important question is: where is the leak coming from?
A gasoline leak tends to have a watery consistency and brownish color. If you found the stain near the rear end of your car; it’s possible that the issue is located in the gas tank. If the stain is closer to the front, this is usually a problem with your fuel pump.
Water Or Moisture Leaks
Water or moisture, is a natural byproduct, of many of your vehicle’s daily operations. One example is your vehicle’s AC system. On a hot, humid summer day, your system will have to work hard; to keep you cool and to remove the moisture inside the car. This moisture gets drained to the ground via a hose. Sometimes, you will even see it, dripping from the tailpipe.
Finally, the more you know about automotive leaks; the better you will be to deal with them in a timely manner.
Thank You !
