Which Fluid is My Used Car Leaking?

By Product Expert | Posted in Maintenance, Tips and Tricks on Friday, December 30th, 2016 at 2:58 pm
Car Leak Color Guide

Have you been noticing wet spots on the garage floor or in parking lots under your car? Those wet spots should not be ignored! They signify that your car is leaking somewhere, and it can affect your used car’s overall health if not taken care of. So what fluid is your used car leaking? We have put together a guide to help you diagnose the problem so you can get it fixed.

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Car Leak Color Guide

Black circle for oil fluid leak

Engine Oil Leaks

You can usually tell that your vehicle is leaking oil when you find a light brown, black, or rainbowy (like in our above feature photo) fluid near the front end of your vehicle. Have this fixed ASAP!

Reddish brown circle for transmission fluid leaks

Transmission Fluid Leaks

Transmission fluid leaks will usually be reddish brown in color with a thin viscosity (new fluid) or brown with a thicker viscosity (old fluid). These leaks will typically be found near your car’s middle section.

Reddish brown circle for power steering fluid leaks

Power Steering Fluid Leaks

Like transmission fluid, power steering fluid will range between light reddish brown to brown on the color spectrum. However, the viscosity will be thin and the leak will be located closer to the front end of your vehicle.

Light brown circle for brake fluid leaks

Brake Fluid Leaks

You can usually diagnosis a brake fluid leak if the liquid is clear to light brown and has a slick texture. If you suspect that you have a brake fluid leak, call for a tow truck immediately and don’t drive the vehicle until the leak is fixed!

Light green circle for coolant fluid leaks

Coolant Leaks

Your car is leaking coolant if you notice a green, pink, or yellow liquid that is slimy. Like other leaks, get this one fixed ASAP so your engine can perform at the right temperature without being damaged.

Light gray circle for summertime vehicle condensation

Condensation

Is it summertime in Indianapolis and you were using your air conditioner in your car? Do you notice a clear, water-like spot under your car? You have nothing to worry about! That is just water in the form of condensation!

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Contact Joe’s Auto Sales with Any Questions!

If you have any questions about a possible leak or need a helping hand with repairing one, please contact the Joe’s Auto Sales service department and schedule a service appointment.