Car leaks can be a headache for any car owner, and many times they’re a sign of a bigger problem. Whether it’s a small spot or a noticeable drip, leaks should never be ignored. In this post, we’ll dive into the most common types of car leaks, how to identify them, and what you should do about them to keep your vehicle running properly.
Types of Car Leaks
Cars can leak a variety of fluids, and each type has its own cause and solution. Here’s some of the most common leaks you may encounter:
1. Engine Oil Leaks
What It Looks Like:
Dark, brown or black liquid spots under your car. It may be thick and sticky.
Engine Oil leaks can range in size from a small leak the size of a quarter up to the size of a softball.
Oil leaks often appear near the engine or under the car’s front.
Possible Causes:
Worn-out, damaged or old gaskets and seals.
Loose or damaged oil drain plug or oil filter.
Cracked or damaged oil pan.
What To Do:
If you notice oil leaking, it's important to address it immediately, as running a car with low oil can cause serious damage to the engine.
Step 1: Check your oil level. If low, top it off and monitor for any more leaks.
Step 2: Bring your car to TRC Auto Repair for a thorough inspection. We will determine what is needed to fix your car.
Step 3: Your vehicle might need to have gaskets, seals, or oil pan components replaced.
2. Coolant Leaks
What It Looks Like:
Coolant comes in many colors; green, orange, yellow, blue, red or pink fluid. Every manufacturer uses a different type nowadays.
Coolant will have a sweet smell.
Leaks may appear near the radiator, thermostat, hoses, or water pump.
Possible Causes:
Cracked or broken radiators occur many times as vehicles get older.
Worn-out hoses, their connections, or temperature sensors can also cause coolant leaks.
Water pumps and/or thermostats are wearable items and will eventually leak as they begin to fail.
What To Do:
Step 1: If coolant is leaking, it can cause your engine to overheat, so don’t drive the car if the coolant level is low.
Step 2: Check your coolant reservoir. If it’s empty, fill it with the appropriate coolant fluid.
Step 3: Schedule a repair with us. A local ASE technician in Belmont NC will check for leaks, replace damaged components, and ensure your cooling system is functioning properly.
3. Brake Fluid Leaks
What It Looks Like:
Brake fluid is a clear, golden or light brown liquid.
Leaks often are seen near the or on the tires, located near the brake components.
A brake fluid leak can cause a spongy or soft brake pedal, reducing braking efficiency.
Many times if you have a brake fluid leak you will have a brake light on the dash, or the ABS light will come on.
Possible Causes:
Damaged brake lines or faulty brake calipers can cause a leak.
As cars age the master cylinder or brake booster can develop leaks
Wheel cylinders were used on older cars and trucks and can leak as their seals get older.
What To Do:
Step 1: If you notice a brake fluid leak, do not drive the car, as you could lose braking ability.
Step 2: Check the brake fluid levels. If it is low, refill with the appropriate brake fluid (check your owner’s manual for the right type).
Step 3: Get your brake system inspected immediately. A certified mechanic will check for any damaged brake lines, leaks in the master cylinder, or worn seals and components.
4. Power Steering Fluid Leaks
What It Looks Like:
Power steering fluid is red or pink colored fluid. This fluid is thick and oily in texture.
Usually if you see any power steering fluid leaks, they would be under the front of your vehicle or near your power steering fluid reservoir.
Possible Causes:
Worn-out seals or hoses in the power steering system can
create power steering fluid leaks, which can make it harder
to steer your vehicle. These parts wear out over time, which
leads to fluid loss, and can affect your steering ability and
eventually damage the power steering pump if not fixed.
What To Do:
Step 1: If you are having a hard time steering or you are hearing unusual noises, you could possibly have a power steering fluid leak.
Step 2: Check your power steering fluid levels. If low, top it off with some power steering fluid, if you are unsure how to do that have one of our technicians do it for you at TRC Automotive.
Step 3: Schedule an appointment with our technicians. If your power steering fluid continues to leak it can make it hard to steer. Which can cause bigger issues.
5. Transmission Fluid Leaks
What It Looks Like:
Transmission Fluid is dark red or brown colored fluid. This fluid has a slippery texture to it.
Typically if you find a transmission fluid leak it is located under the middle area of your vehicle or near your
transmission pan.
Possible Causes:
If you have worn out or damaged transmission seals or
Gaskets, this may cause your transmission to leak fluid.
When you have a cracked transmission pan or faulty cooler lines it may also be the reason why your transmission fluid may be leaking.
What To Do:
Step 1: Keep an eye on your transmission fluid level. If it is low then you might notice a hesitation when your gears are switching. If your fluid levels are low you may also notice your gears slipping or you may hear a grinding sound.
Step 2: Driving your vehicle around with low transmission fluid can create irreversible damage to your transmission. This will create a more expensive repair later down the road.
Step 3: You can bring your vehicle to TRC Automotive Repair in Belmont and one of our technicians can inspect your transmission, seals, and your gaskets to ensure that they are not damaged.
