What Color Is Transmission Fluid When It Leaks
Backing out of the driveway only to notice puddles of fluid beneath your ride is never a great feeling. Nevertheless, changes in weather and driving styles can cause your vehicle leak fluids from time to time.
When this happens, it's important to correctly identify exactly what types of fluid may be leaking so that the factory-certified mechanics at Haldeman Subaru can better assist you. Two of the easiest ways to identify which fluid is leaking is by its color and consistency.
Check out this handy guide that can help you identify leaking auto fluids based on these unique factors.
Light Brown to Black: Engine Oil
Is the leaking fluid light brown, amber, or black in color? If so, your vehicle is most likely leaking motor oil. This color stain is usually found directly beneath the area in which the engine was located while the vehicle was parked.
Oil that is older is typically darker and thicker than fresh oil, which is typically an amber-gold color.
Oil leaks are usually caused by loose gaskets, valve covers, or seals in the engine compartment of your car, but they can also be caused by a punctured oil pan. Either way, oil leaks can cause serious issues for your engine, and this type of leak should be addressed immediately.
Red Or Rust-Colored: Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid leaks can often be mistaken for engine oil, since the fluids are similar in color. However, take special note of the exact coloration of your leak. If you notice a reddish or rust-colored tint, you likely have a transmission fluid leak on your hands.
Transmission fluid leaks are typically caused by broken or nicked lines that lead to the radiator or cooler, but they can also come directly from the transmission system itself.
A leaking transmission system can cause problems when your vehicle attempts to shift, so it's incredibly important to have this issue looked at by a professional as soon as possible.
Transparent Yellow to Brown: Brake Fluid
Newer brake fluid is usually a transparent, nearly clear colored with a yellowish tint. However, this fluid can become darker and closer to brown as it ages. Take special note of the leaked fluid's consistency, as brake fluid is very slick and slippery.
Leaking brake fluid is an incredibly serious issue, since your vehicle will have trouble coming to a stop without it. Be sure to call Haldeman Subaru's expert service center immediately if you suspect a brake fluid leak.
Green, Orange, Pink, or Blue-Green: Coolant
As a result of its bright colors, engine coolant is the easiest to identify of all automotive fluids. Manufacturers typically use brightly colored dyes to ensure that drivers and mechanics can easily distinguish these important fluids.
Coolant has a watery consistency, and occasionally, a sweet smell. Without it, your engine is at risk of overheating.
Sometimes, coolant leak causes could be as simple as a loose clamp, or as serious and complicated as a broken water pump or heater leak. In order to keep your car running well, you should have a professional mechanic identify the issue as soon as possible.
Are you experiencing leaks beneath your vehicle? If so, Haldeman Subaru in Hamilton can help.
To schedule a service appointment with our dealership today, contact us online , by phone, or in-person. Our expert service staff can assist you with any issues you may be experiencing.
What Color Is Transmission Fluid When It Leaks
Source: https://www.haldemansubaru.com/blog/2020/september/23/how-to-identify-automotive-fluid-leaks-by-color-and-consistency.htm