How To Determine What’s Leaking Based Off Of Color

We all know we’ve moved our car and noticed an ominous puddle underneath where we were parked. It can definitely be an unnerving experience if you don’t know what the color of the puddle means. We’ve thrown together a quick guide on how to know what is leaking from your car based on the color that you see. 

Clear: First and foremost, if you noticed a puddle of clear looking liquid underneath your car especially after using the A/C unit then it’s most likely just excess condensation. Therefore the puddle that you’re most likely seeing is just water. 

Yellow, Green, or Pink: The brightest colored leaks tend to be the easiest to spot. More often than not, these bright puddles are simply a coolant leak. These leaks are important to fix as soon as possible because the engine coolant plays a vital role in keeping your engine from overheating. If you notice a bright-colored puddle then make sure not to drive too far before getting it checked out. 

Orange: If an orange or reddish colored puddle appears underneath your car, it could most likely be transmission fluid. If this is the case, take your vehicle in to see a professional who can service your transmission for you at an auto repair shop in Hatfield.

Red (Reddish): Generally a red or reddish colored puddle under your car is going to mean there’s a power steering fluid leak especially if the liquid is thin in texture. A common culprit is the power steering pump and your local auto repair shop can determine this for you!

Yellow to Dark Brown: Brake fluid typically starts out clear and becomes darker as it ages. If the fluid feels slippery then it’s likely brake fluid and not oil. Brakes are not something to gamble with so get them checked by a professional immediately. 

Light Brown to Black: Depending on the age of your motor oil, it’ll appear light brown to a dark black. Oil could be coming from multiple spots underneath your car so if you find a dark puddle just know it’s most likely oil. Again, have this check by your local professional repair shop.

Have questions about a puddle you found underneath your car? Bob’s Auto Repair can determine what the fluid is, what the cause is, and fix it before anything worse goes wrong. Contact Bob’s Auto Repair for all of your vehicle maintenance needs at (215) 343-1255.