What is Leaking Under My Car?
Identifying Fluid Leaks
We've all been there. You walk out to your car and you see a puddle underneath the vehicle. When/if you begin seeing a puddle of liquid forming beneath your car or truck, it's important to diagnose the source as soon as possible. Here are some of the most common fluid leaks found in cars.
1. Engine Oil
One of the most common fluid leaks is engine oil. If you see an oily spot on your driveway or garage floor, it's likely engine oil. Engine oil leaks can be caused by a few different things, but the most common is simply worn or damaged engine seals. These seals are what keep the oil in your engine, so if they're damaged, oil will leak out. In most cases, engine oil leaks can be fixed with a simple seal replacement. However, if the leak is severe, you may need to have your engine rebuilt.
2. Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid leaks are another common issue, and they can be just as damaging as oil leaks. If you see red or pink fluid leaking from your car, it's likely transmission fluid. Transmission fluid is what keeps your transmission lubricated and cool. If the fluid level gets too low, it can cause your transmission to overheat or even fail. That's why it's so important to have any transmission leaks fixed as soon as possible.
3. Brake Fluid
Brake fluid leaks are fairly rare, but they can be dangerous if they're not fixed. Brake fluid is crucial for allowing you to stop your vehicle, so if it's leaking, your brakes may not work properly. Brake fluid leaks are usually caused by a faulty brake line or caliper. In most cases, these leaks can be fixed with a simple repair. However, if the leak is severe, you may need to replace your brakes.
4. Coolant
Coolant leaks are usually easy to spot because the fluid is bright green. Coolant is what keeps your engine from overheating, so if it's leaking, it can cause some serious problems. Coolant leaks are often caused by a faulty radiator cap or a leak in the radiator itself. In most cases, these leaks can be fixed with a simple repair. However, if the leak is severe, you may need to replace your radiator.
5. Power Steering Fluid
Power steering fluid leaks are fairly rare, but they can be dangerous if they're not fixed. Power steering fluid is what allows you to turn your car, so if it's leaking, your steering may not work properly. Power steering fluid leaks are usually caused by a faulty power steering pump or hose. In most cases, these leaks can be fixed with a simple repair. However, if the leak is severe, you may need to replace your power steering system.
Sprung a Leak? Have Mad Hatter Auto Repair Check it Out!
If you see any fluid leaks under your car, it's important to have them diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible. The trained mechanics at Mad Hatter Auto Repair can assist you with all of your automotive needs, so give us a call today! We have two locations proudly serving Council Bluffs (712) 322-7500 and Omaha (402) 330-2286.