All vehicles need different fluids to keep them running in excellent condition. It is common for these to drip on occasions, but these leaks sometimes indicate severe mechanical troubles. Recognizing which fluid is leaking from your car can help you prevent further damages and costly auto repair service. Below, the experts at The Shop Auto Service in Cincinnati, OH, share a handy guide on identifying fluid leaks.  

Auto Repair Expert Provides Tips on How to Identify Fluid Leaks

1. Engine Oil

If the spot is colored light brown to black with a medium consistency, it’s probably engine oil. It’s the most common leak and easiest to spot. A minor oil leak is often not an issue, but you should have it checked nonetheless.

2. Transmission Fluid

If the stain is either reddish and thin or brown and thick and located near the car’s center, it could be your transmission fluid. The leak might be due to a deteriorating transmission seal or gasket.

3. Power Steering Fluid

If the puddle’s color is similar to your transmission fluid but located at the front of the vehicle, then it must be coming from your power steering system. Some power steering systems use an identical or similar fluid to your transmission.  

4. Brake Fluid

If you notice a clear to slightly brown drip with a medium consistency and a slippery feel, it’s your brake fluid leaking. This is a serious issue that must be addressed immediately, as your safety can be compromised.

5. Coolant

If the stain is yellowish, pinkish, or greenish, then that’s your coolant. Coolant leaks are the second most common, especially with older car models that blow off coolant when the engine gets too hot.

6. Windshield Washer Fluid

If the leak is colorful, has a thin consistency with a slightly sweet smell, it must be your windshield washer dripping. This is not as critical as the other types of leaks, but you should have it inspected regardless.

7. Water

If the puddle is shiny, colorless, and thin, it’s just water from the auto air conditioning system. Condensation builds up when you’re running the air conditioner on full blast, and the water is drained from a tube. This is not something you have to worry about.

It’s quite common to have a bit of liquid on the underside of your car, but it will still serve you well to be able to identify it correctly. If you need engine repair, oil change, brake service, or other auto maintenance solutions, turn to The Shop Auto Service. Their team of ASE-certified technicians can provide top-notch auto repair services. Call (513) 861-4445 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about them.