- July 5, 2017
- By Emma G
- In Belts, Brakes, Diagnostics, Engine, Filters, Transmission
- 1452
- 0
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Ever wondered what is leaking from under your car? Concerned that something maybe wrong? The table below can be used as a guide to determine what fluid you may find leaking from your vehicle and what it means.
Fluid |
Description |
Location |
Should I be concerned? |
Fuel | Petrol has a distinctive smell we are all familiar with. | Fuel tank, fuel pipe, fuel lines, and injectors | Yes! If your vehicle is leaking fuel you have a fire risk. Get it repaired as soon as possible. |
Differential Oil | Light brown or black and thicker than engine oil. | Pinion seal or other seals | Yes, if it is leaking on your brakes. Then you run the risk of brake failure. |
Transmission Fluid/Oil | Light brown or black and thicker than engine oil or it could be reddish coloured. | Transmission pan/gasket, torque converter, fluid lines and seals. | Yes, if the transmission is leaking and falls below minimum level you run the risk of transmission failure, Especially in an automatic. |
Motor Oil | Light brown or black with a medium consistency | Oil pan, valve covers and oil filter. | Yes and No. Depending on the position of the leak, Get it checked. |
Brake fluid | Yellow but slightly brown and slippery. | Master cylinder seal, brake lines, wheel cylinder or piston seal. | YES! Any leaks to do with brakes or clutch fluid run the risk of brake failure and accident. |
Power steering fluid | Thin red or light brown | Cracked power steering reservoir, power steering pump and hoses. | Yes and No. Depending on the position of the leak, Get it checked. |
Windscreen Wiper Fluid | Thin bluish colour | Cracked wiper fluid reservoir or wiper fluid lines | No. Just bear in mind you will have trouble using your washers. |
Water | AC or exhaust condenser | Yes and No. Depending on the position of the leak, Get it checked. | |
Coolant | Slimy green, pink or yellow | Radiator, radiator hoses or water pump. | Yes and No. Depending on the position of the leak, Get it checked. |
If you notice anything leaking from your car other than water there is usually a problem. Call Townsville Mobile Mechanic on 0400 401 171 to book in or book in online.