What Color Fluid is Leaking from Your Car?

If you notice that your car is leaking fluids on your Muscle Shoals driveway or in your garage, you may be wondering if it is a sign of a serious problem. Determining the type of fluid leak can help you to pinpoint the issue and decide whether your vehicle should be brought in for service. The experts at Greenway Honda of Florence have created a guide below to assist you in diagnosing the issue. 

Is My Car Leaking Water? 

If your car is leaking water, it’s usually not serious. The air conditioning system in your vehicle creates condensation whenever it’s activated, so it is completely normal to see small puddles of water near the back of the engine compartment. If you notice water near the tailpipe, typically it is just exhaust condensation that will dissipate once your muffler warms up. However, there can be more serious issues associated with leaking fluids. 

Identifying the Cause of a Leak

Is water leaking from under the car, or is it something more serious? Follow these steps to find where it’s coming from.

• Place a sheet of paper under the leak. If the fluid is something other than water, the color will show up in the paper. If it’s blue, green, or yellow, it’s probably coolant, not water.
• If you notice more than just a small amount of water leaking from your exhaust, it could be a sign of a blown gasket. 
• While coolant can usually be identified easily due to its color, it can be beneficial to also check the coolant level. If it’s low, you’ll want to bring your car to a certified service centerquickly.
• It’s possible the leak is coming from a cracked windshield wiper fluid reservoir. If you added water to your windshield wiper fluid, that water can freeze in the reservoir, expanding and causing the plastic container to crack. If the fluid is light blue or light green color and found by the front tires, it is likely windshield wiper fluid. 

If the cause is anything other than condensation, it’s worth visiting the service center at Greenway Honda of Florence. 

What Fluid Is Leaking From My Car?

If you place a sheet of paper under your vehicle and the leaking fluid isn’t clear, it’s not water. 

What Color is Transmission Fluid?

Healthy transmission fluid will be either pink or relatively clear with a slight pink/red hue to it. If it’s a deep red or brown, the fluid is old and could be causing damage. Dark brown indicates burnt transmission fluid from overheating

What Color is Power Steering Fluid?

Red or pink, though you might have a hard time telling it apart from some other fluids, and if you see a reddish fluid, it’s best to have a service center you can call.

What Color is Coolant? 

Healthy coolant is green (ethylene glycol) or orange (Dexcool). If you notice a rusty color, it means your coolant has broken down.

What Color is Windshield Wiper Fluid?

Blue, most of the time. Some treated wiper fluids are other colors, like orange. If you see a clear liquid in your wiper fluid reservoir, it may have been filled with water — which we discourage, as a cold snap can cause freezing, expanding the ice and damaging the reservoir.

What Color is Brake Fluid?

Fresh brake fluid will have a yellow color to it, but it gets darker as its age. You might have a hard time telling old brake fluid from old oil, as they’re both a dark brown.

What Color is Newer Engine Oil or Gear Lubricant?

Most drivers can recognize an oil leak — even if you notice another light brown fluid, you should hopefully see that shimmer of a rainbow when the light catches it just right.

What to Do When Your Vehicle is Leaking

• If your vehicle is leaking transmission fluid or engine oil, drive it as little as possible before bringing it in for service, as it can lead to engine problems. 
• If your vehicle is leaking power steering fluid or brake fluid, it can be a significant safety hazard. Have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. 
• If windshield wiper fluid is leaking from your vehicle, simply check to make sure the cap is secure and replace what has been lost. 
• When your vehicle is leaking antifreeze in The Shoals, it should once again be looked at by a mechanic ASAP. The engine could be damaged if the leak is coming from the radiator or water pump. 

Greenway Honda of Florence Provides Dependable Automotive Service

If you are concerned about your car leaking fluids, bring it by and have it evaluated by one of our highly-skilled technicians. We want to help you get back on the roads of Northern Alabama safely and as soon as possible. Contact us today for more information.