Discovering any type of pooled liquid in a spot where your car was parked can be horrific for many drivers. Seeing the liquid stain is a definite indication there is a problem with the vehicle. Knowing which fluid is leaking, is often difficult for most people who are not familiar with the mechanics of a vehicle. In an effort to help you identify the fluid leaking from your vehicle, we at Calderon Tow & Auto would like to share a quick car fluid color chart.
Car Fluid Color Chart
Keep in mind, no matter what kind of leak is in question, you should visit your nearest mechanic as soon as possible to rectify the situation. Where most people know that oil leaks are usually a light brown to black color, the other fluids and correlating colors are listed below.
Radiator Fluid
Being quite distinguishable from the rest, radiator fluid is arguably the easiest leak to identify from the color. It is most definitely coolant should you spot a green or yellowish stain underneath your vehicle. As it is a vital under-the-hood fluid, coolant is responsible for protecting your engine from overheating as well as preventing your cooling system water from freezing at the same time. In the event you drive your vehicle with an insufficient amount of coolant, it can cause severe damage to the engine. Should you see your car leaking green fluid, make certain to get the issue resolved as soon as possible.
Brake Fluid
Being able to identify if your brakes are leaking fluid is another important detail since you do not want to be driving your vehicle with malfunctioning brakes. If the brake fluid is new, it should be clear in color, however, as it the brake fluid ages, there is a brown under tone to the fluid. Checking its consistency is the easiest way to distinguish brake fluid. You are probably dealing with an issue with the braking system and should try and resolve before considering driving your vehicle if it has a slippery and oily texture.
Transmission System Fluid Leak
Seeing a pink, reddish or brown stain on the pavement underneath your vehicle suggests a gap in your transmission system, particularly if the texture is thicker than engine oil. Another indicator you are dealing with a failure in your transmission system is the location of the leak as well. You are likely dealing with a faulty transmission system in the event the brown stain is located near the center of the vehicle.
Power Steering Fluid Leak
Power steering fluid leaks are among the toughest leaks to identify. Being the same color as transmission fluid, power steering fluid is tricky. It is probably power steering should you find the oily spot near the front of your vehicle.
Towing & Roadside Assistance in San Mateo, San Francisco, Daly City & Colma, CA | Greater Bay Area of California
If you find yourself in a predicament where you are leaking these important fluids from your vehicle in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area of California, it is in your better interest to call Calderon Tow & Auto for a tow to get your leaks repaired and fluids topped off to ensure your vehicle doesn’t sustain costly damage.