At some point or another, you’ve probably noticed spots that have stained the driveway or garage floor, or small drips or puddles that form underneath your vehicle and wondered, “what could that be?”. Cars require several fluids to keep them operating and, on occasion, those fluids can begin to leak. Some of the more common fluids can be easy to identify and knowing which one is which can help you determine the severity of the problem.

Identifying Car Leaks

• Water – In the summer, when your vehicle’s air conditioning is maxed, it’s common to see water condensation drip underneath the car, appearing as though the car has sprung a leak. No worries, this is completely normal.
• Windshield Wiper Fluid – Windshield wiper fluid has the consistency of water and is typically blue in color, although it can be orange or green. Fortunately, the loss of this solvent isn’t serious and won’t affect your car’s ability to operate.
• Power Steering Fluid – If your car starts leaking this fluid, chances are you will notice because your ability to turn the steering wheel will become quite difficult. This leak will be visible towards the front of the car and will be red or yellow in color, depending on the type of power steering fluid used in your vehicle. Take your car in to address this issue, as a sudden loss of steering can be dangerous for you, and others, on the road.
• Transmission Fluid – A leak of this fluid will be from the center of the vehicle. It can be reddish to brownish in color, depending on how old it is. Its texture is much like oil and its smell is similar to gas. If you suspect that your transmission fluid is leaking, take your vehicle to a mechanic right away.
• Antifreeze – Antifreeze typically leaks from the front end of the car, near the engine, but it can also come from your exhaust pipe. This fluid has a sweet smell and is usually green or red, with a texture just a bit thicker than water. Coolant leaks can lead to engine damage, so get your car in sooner than later if this is the culprit.
• Gas – Everyone knows the smell of gas, so identifying this leak is pretty easy. When gas leaks occur near the back of the car, this indicates a leak in the gas tank. If the leak is occurring near the front of the vehicle, it’s probably the fuel pump. Regardless of location, leaking gas isn’t a good thing, so getting the problem fixed is your best line of action.
• Brake Fluid – If your brake fluid is leaking, you will notice a clear or yellowish substance that is oily and somewhat thick and can be visible anywhere under the car. Brake fluid is a necessary component in the proper operations of your brake system, so if you suspect a brake fluid leak, it’s critical to get your car to a mechanic as soon as possible!
• Engine Oil – Fresh oil will appear amber in color, whereas older oil will be brown or black. Oil is the most common type of leak seen in a vehicle and can occur anywhere around the engine. There are several reasons oil can leak, some more serious than others, but regardless, an auto technician is your best bet in resolving the issue.

As with any chemicals, these fluids can be harmful and should be kept away from children or pets. When cleaning up after leaks, take extra care to avoid contact and properly dispose of any cleaning materials, such as rags or paper towels. Adhering to proper guidelines for spillage and cleanup is imperative.

Now that you can identify the fluid leaking from your vehicle, you’ll be able to determine what needs to happen next, and if you need a mechanic, Carworks of Longmont is here to help!

Since 1993, Carworks has provided customers in Longmont and the surrounding areas with trusted quality auto preventative maintenance and auto repair services. Our auto technicians are ASE certified and are skilled to service virtually any make or model of vehicle. From water pumps to wheel bearings, the team at Carworks of Longmont has got you covered!

If your car has sprung a leak and you need the professional services of a trusted auto repair shop, give Carworks of Longmont a call today!