![]() Oil can leak from gaskets and seals on the front or rear of an engine, from valve covers or from the oil pan underneath, so there are several possible sources of an oil leak. Ways to Identify Leaking FluidsĮngine oil can be amber (if it’s fresh), brown or - if it hasn’t been changed for 10,000 miles - black, and it will leave slickness on your fingers that’s hard to wipe off. Even if fluid isn’t visibly dripping, leaks will leave tracks, and seepage will leave dark spots around gaskets and seals that you might be able to spot. That should give you a better look at the color and help you find where it came from, either by looking up from underneath the vehicle or down from above the engine. If it appears to be coming from under the hood, narrow the possible culprits down by placing clean cardboard, such as a flattened box, under the engine and transmission immediately after the car has been driven, then check it later. If it’s watery, it could also be windshield washer fluid. If you’re really lucky, that initial investigation will show that it’s colorless and odorless, which would mean it’s just water draining from the vehicle’s air-conditioning system, typically in the front on the passenger side. Your car’s owner’s manual will show the location of fluid reservoirs under the hood, and that could help you identify the leaking fluid. If gas isn’t the culprit, start your investigation by dabbing the fluid with your finger and/or a clean paper towel to get a closer look at the color, as well as to smell it and feel it with your fingers (keep reading for more details on this). It’s unsafe to drive a car that’s leaking gas. Most antifreeze used to be green now it comes in several hues.įirst, if it smells like gas - and it’s not just a few drops you spilled while filling the tank - treat it as a big deal, because it probably is. Reddish fluid is usually from the transmission, though it could also be power-steering fluid. How can you figure it out? To be sure, you’ll need to pinpoint where it’s coming from using your eyes and your nose.Īmber, dark brown or even black fluid is probably motor oil, but it could also be brake fluid. Whether you spot a puddle under your car or just a few drops, there are several possible culprits, and color alone might not explain what it is. ![]()
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