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. 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. Diagnosing leaks is really, not that hard.
Consequently, Any Of The Following Can 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 color 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 engine 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 you have a fuel leak !
- 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.
Thank You !
