Identify what fluid is leaking from your car
- Fundamental Foundation
- Jun 28
- 1 min read
To identify what fluid is leaking from your car, observe the fluid's color, consistency, and the location of the leak:
Coolant: Slimy green, pink, or yellow fluid found near the radiator, radiator hoses, or water pump.
Water: Clear, thin liquid, often harmless condensation from the A/C or exhaust.
Windshield Wiper Fluid: Thin, bluish color, indicating a cracked reservoir or fluid lines.
Power Steering Fluid: Thin, red or light brown fluid found near the power steering reservoir, pump, or hoses.
Brake Fluid: Yellowish/slightly brown, slippery fluid with medium consistency, often leaking from the master cylinder seal, brake lines, or wheel cylinders.
Engine Oil: Light brown or black with medium consistency, typically found near the oil pan, valve covers, or oil filter.
Transmission Fluid: Light brown/black and thicker than engine oil, or reddish and thinner than engine oil, often from the transmission pan/gasket, torque converter, or fluid lines.
Differential Fluid: Light brown/black and thicker than engine oil, usually near the pinion seal or other seals.
Fuel: Smells distinctly like fuel and leaks from the fuel tank, pump, lines, or injectors.
