What is Leaking From My Car?

What is Leaking From My Car?

Nothing can make a car owner panic more than a few spots, or even a puddle of fluid leaking from your tire area. The good news is that those spots of fluid may mean nothing; the bad news is that fluid under your car can signal a major problem. If you’re wondering why is my car leaking, the key to figuring out the difference between a non-issue and a major auto repair is getting down on your hands and knees and determining the color of the fluid leaking is (to make identifying the fluid easier, put a sheet of paper under the leak).

Be sure to check your owner’s manual when it comes to the specifics of fluids. For example, it’s important to know whether your car uses synthetic motor oil or conventional. And when receiving repair services, be sure to contact the professional team at Harris Tire for further assistance.

Below are a list of the necessary fluids needed for a smooth running automobile. Refer to this list and the chart to learn more:

Fluid leaking from car

Different Car Leaks

Clear = water. If you find water leaking after your AC is running, don’t worry. It’s normal to have water dripping under your car off of the AC condenser.

Yellow = coolant. Coolant leaks can mean any number of minor or major problems with your air conditioning, from a leaking radiator, coolant pump or heater core. A major signal that your problem is your heater core: smelling a strange odor whenever your heater is on. If you suspect a coolant leak, schedule an appointment with us, today! Your car may need a specific type of coolant for various functions and controlling the temperature of your engine; repairs need to be made.

Black = engine oil. Usually oil leaking is from a degrading gasket or seal, and should be checked by a mechanic so it doesn’t get worse. Even though an oil leak is a common car leak, it’s not normal for a car to lose oil. Remember, oil is vital to proper lubrication in your engine; make sure you bring this to our attention the next time you schedule an oil change appointment.

Reddish brown = power steering fluid. Ever notice how easy it is to turn the wheel of your car and turn it? That’s because of power steering fluid and the power steering pump. If you notice power steering fluid leaking, most likely the seals and O rings are starting to break down; if the leak persists, the whole system could fail.

Red or brown = transmission fluid. Your car uses transmission fluid to shift gears, so a long-term transmission fluid leak can cause transmission failure—a very costly auto repair. To keep your transmission shifting, and you on the road, make an appointment to have your transmission fluid flushed every 30-60,000 miles – or as low as 15,000 miles for workhorse vehicles – and all leaks of that thick red or grimy brown fluid fixed. You could always check out our past BLOG that will help you figure out how often you should have this done.

Clear or brown = brake fluid. As a general rule, DON’T ignore any signs when it comes to brake pads or failing brakes; they are crucial in preventing accidents and keeping you on the road safely. Leaking brake fluid can signal a major problem, and should be taken care of as soon as possible by scheduling an appointment, and letting us get you safely back on the road. If your brake warning light comes on as well, pull over and call for a tow. You need your brakes for stopping; don’t procrastinate or take chances when it comes to a brake fluid leak.

Schedule

If you have any questions about your car’s fluid levels or fluid under your car, schedule an appointment with us today, to diagnose the problem and get a quote for repairs. We can stop the leak, and fix any underlying problems that may affect you in the future. Best yet, we can give you peace of mind that the leaks are gone, and you won’t be stranded on the side of the road.