Noticed some fluid leaking from your car? Vehicles use various fluids, so it’s important to identify which fluid type is puddling in your driveway to avoid mechanical or safety issues. Use this guide to determine which fluids you may be dealing with, and make an appointment with your mechanic to have the issue properly diagnosed.
Transmission Fluid
If the fluid leaking from your car is red in color, it may be transmission fluid. Transmission fluid ensures that your car can shift smoothly, and operating a vehicle that is low on transmission fluid can cause major damage. How can you be sure that’s the issue? If transmission fluid is leaking, it will almost always drip from under the forward section of your car’s passenger cabin.
Differential Fluid
Differential fluid looks and feels similar to transmission fluid, so the easiest way to tell the difference is to notice where the leak is coming from. If the leak is near the car’s rear, it is much more likely to be differential fluid than transmission fluid. Have a mechanic investigate the issue to be sure.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid leaks generally accumulate near a tire or under the brake master cylinder. Brake fluid is a clear or light brown color and will feel slimy to the touch. A brake fluid leak is hazardous and warrants an immediate trip to the mechanic to ensure your stopping power is not hindered — don’t drive your vehicle if you suspect a brake fluid leak!
Coolant Leak
The color most easily identifies coolant leaks — coolant is usually bright green, but it can also be pink or yellow. Coolant keeps the engine from overheating, which can do major damage, so coolant leaks must be repaired right away.
Oil Leak
Oil leaks may be the most common kind of fluid leak. Oil ranges from black to light brown, depending on how recently the vehicle’s oil has been changed and can seep from many places. If you notice an oil leak, it’s important to have a mechanic determine the severity of the issue to find out how quickly it needs to be repaired.
If you’ve discovered a leak and need professional diagnostics and auto repair in Lihue, head to Kauai Auto Repair, LLC. Our expert auto repair technicians will quickly get to the bottom of the leak and have you on your way in no time.
