How to know what oil is leaking from your car

Your car runs on a complex fluid system. If you see residue under your car after driving, it may indicate that one of the fluids is leaking. It’s hard to know what type of fluid your car is leaking or where the leak is coming from, but it helps to know what the fluid looks like. Read on to learn how to find out what fluid your car is leaking and the type of mechanical problem behind it.

Clear liquid

Clear fluid is usually air conditioning condensation and is unlikely to be a mechanical problem. Alternatively, clear fluid with an odor may indicate a gasoline leak in the fuel system.

Brown liquid

Brown fluid indicates that your engine is leaking oil. Engine leaks will smell like gasoline and have a thicker consistency. If you need new engine parts and have not repaired the leak, the fluid will turn black over time.

Yellow liquid

Yellow fluid indicates that brake fluid is leaking from your brake system. If you do not address the leak, the brake fluid may be light brown in color and will smell like fish oil.

Blue or green liquid

If your car is leaking green or blue fluid, the windshield wiper fluid is leaking from the washer fluid reservoir. The fluid will also have a distinct odor of winder cleaner. In addition, fluorescent colors such as bright green or pink can indicate a coolant leak in the cooling system. You can tell the difference because coolant is thicker and smells sweeter than wiping fluid.

Red or brown liquid

Power steering fluid and automatic transmission fluid are both red in color. How to know what fluid is leaking from your car is by the different consistencies. If power steering fluid is leaking, the fluid may be red to reddish-brown in color and have a thinner consistency. If automatic transmission fluid is leaking, the fluid will be bright red and will turn brown if left untreated. Power steering fluid also has a distinct burnt smell.

If you suspect a car leak, the best next step is to contact a professional mechanic. While not all car leaks are dangerous, it is important to stay safe and not drive until you know what type of fluid is leaking and what mechanical problems you may be experiencing.

Your car runs on a complex fluid system. If you see residue under your car after driving, it may indicate that one of the fluids is leaking. It’s hard to know what type of fluid your car is leaking or where the leak is coming from, but it helps to know what the fluid looks…