It is a fact that leaks can be a bit tricky for everyone to identify, but there a few hints that can greatly help a driver to determine what is dripping from belly of their car. And there are 3 major things that you may want to look for, especially when trying to find out where the leak could be coming from. They are color, location and consistency. Below are quick tips to help you identify fluid leaks in your car:
Engine oil
The engine oil leaks are a common type of leaks and are mostly found under the front half part of the your car, under the engine. This engine oil is dark brown or black in color and it is always very slippery to the touch. These leaks come from the valve covers, oil pan, real seal, oil filter or even the oil pan plug.
Transmission fluid
This is found in the middle of the car towards the front. It is typically red and also very slick to the touch. You will find that transmission fluid shares similar consistency when compared to the light engine oil. It has a distinct petroleum smell, and when it is overdue for say, a change, it may smell burnt and be more brownish in color.
Anti freeze
Its color is either green or red and has a thicker consistency when compared to water. It is very slippery to touch and has a very sweet smell. Anti-freeze leaks are known to come from the front most part of a car under the engine or near the radiator. They originate from the water pump, radiator hoses, radiator or the radiator overflow container.
If you routinely fill your radiator and cannot find a leak near the front of your vehicle, then you would want to check your tailpipe. If you smell a very sweet odor from the very tailpipe, then have the leak fixed as soon as it is possible. This can be dangerous to the internal parts of your engine if you allow it to worsen.
Fuel
This could be the easiest fluid to identify if it is leaking because you can tell just by the scent. Not only are fuel leaks a significant safety hazards, each leaking drop is also a waste of money. Again, these leaks need to be fixed immediately they are identified. When the fuel lines or injector fails, it is very likely to experience the leaks from the front of your vehicle.
Rear differential oil
The rear differential is mostly found on rear wheel drive vehicles and is located between the rear tears. It is a round casing almost the size of a soccer ball. If you see spots of thick, black oil on your pavement just under the differential, then it may be leaking. Rear differential oil has a higher viscosity than then engine oil.
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