Once you know what you are looking at, finding the source of the fluid leak will be much easier.
So, Let’s try to figure out what that fluid leak is coming from under your car and what you should do about it.
Also, Most cars have a number of fluids that can cause a fluid leak from under the car.
No matter how great or reliable your car is, the odds are good that one day you’re going to see something leaking from the bottom of it. And when that happens, you’re probably going to worry about what the leaking fluid is and what it means for your car. One of the first things you may do is use sites like Automole to help you determine what the issue is. But, Before you get too concerned, you should get an idea of how to identify the fluids in your car so you can plan accordingly.
Consequently, Any Of The Following Can Contribute To A Fluid Leak.
- Brake fluid
- Coolant
- Windshield washer fluid
- Engine oil
- Water
- Power steering fluid
- Transmission fluid
So, Before You Start Worrying, Take A Moment To Look At The Fluid;
- What colour is it?
- Does it have a smell?
- Check the consistency.
So, Here’s how to decipher the fluid leak:
If it’s clear, watery, and under the air conditioner:
- It’s probably normal condensation if you’ve used the air conditioner recently.
If it’s black or dark brown, greasy, and located under the engine area:
The fluid leak is probably oil. Figure out which part of the vehicle was over the spot.
- Look around the oil filter
- The oil drain plug
- The crankcase
- And the oil pan
If it’s thick, black or tan oily liquid:
- Gear oil may be leaking from a manual transmission, the differential, an axle, or the steering gears. As a result, Any of these leaks needs immediate attention.
If it’s red, pink, or reddish-brown and greasy and you have an automatic transmission:
- It’s probably a transmission fluid leak. Check the transmission dipstick, and if the level is low, top it off with the proper transmission fluid. Then check the dipstick again in a day or two.
If it’s watery or slippery; green, red, blue, or yellow; and is coming from under the radiator or engine:
- It’s probably coolant. Check the radiator, pressure cap, engine, and hoses for leaks.
If it’s oily; pink, red, or clear; and you find it toward the front bumper (usually on the driver’s side):
- It’s probably power-steering fluid. Since the power-steering system is sealed and shouldn’t lose fluid.
If it’s a light-colored or clear fluid:
- It may be a brake fluid leak. Even if the leaks have dried, the stains should be visible. Leaky brakes are very dangerous. Finally, Have a professional repair any brake fluid leak immediately.
If it smells like rotten eggs:
- It could be battery acid. So, Avoid getting it on your hands or clothes and have the battery replaced.
If it smells like fuel:
Most likely it is !
- Consequently if the smell is coming from under the hood, check around the fuel pump and the fuel injectors – or the carburetor if your vehicle has one.
- When the leak seems to be under the center of the vehicle, check the fuel lines.
- Also, If it’s under the rear end, check the fuel tank.
(Don’t smoke while you do this!)
Now that you have identified what type of liquid is leaking from your car, you can move on to the proper repair.
Conclusion
So, Knowing how to identify a fluid leak is an important skill for any car owner. And, While some fluid leaks can be addressed at home, others denote potentially serious problems and need to be inspected by a professional. Finally, Routinely check for possible fluid leaks and always be aware of any puddles or drizzles around your normal parking spaces.
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