Found a mystery fluid dripping underneath your car? You’re not alone. Fluid leaks are a lot more common than most car owners really want to believe. Erik’s Automotive has some advice for you about what that mystery fluid might be, based on some clues about the fluid itself.
Blue, Watery Fluid
Watery blue fluid is most likely going to be windshield wiper fluid. You may not even be able to see any color at all, which may make you think that this is simply water. It can be important to know if you’re leaking windshield wiper fluid, though, because that’s not one you want to be out of when you really need it most.
Neon-colored Fluid
If you’re seeing bright, neon-colored fluid underneath your car, the culprit is probably engine coolant. Engine coolant might be neon yellow or green, but it can pick up rust in the radiator and take on an orange tint, too. This is a vital fluid and your car’s engine really can’t function without it, so anytime you spot coolant leaking it needs to be addressed.
Reddish-brown or Brown Fluid
Any time you’re seeing fluid that is red or reddish-brown in color, you’re probably also seeing it underneath the back end of the car. This is usually going to be transmission fluid, and if your transmission is leaking that’s a big problem.
Brown or Black Fluid
Found some fluid that’s black or brown and really greasy? That is probably oil, and if you’ve guessed that an oil leak isn’t great news, you’re right. Oil can leak from just about anywhere in the engine compartment. Typically you’ll see the oil right under the main portion of the engine compartment, though.
Brown or Black Fluid Around a Wheel
Think you’ve spotted an oil leak, but it’s near or around a wheel? That’s probably brake fluid. Brake fluid is very greasy, but instead of running through the engine it circulates through the brake system to help the brakes function. If you’re seeing a brake fluid leak, there may be air in the lines and your brakes may have less stopping power.
Still feel uncertain about a mystery fluid? Erik’s Automotive in San Antonio, TX can identify it for you. Give us a call today and we’ll be happy to take a closer look at whatever is happening with your car. You’ll have the information that you need to get the problem fully fixed the first time.