Have you noticed a fresh puddle when moving your car from its parking spot? Your vehicle could be leaking fluid, or it might just be condensation from your AC. Here are some tips to help you identify what that liquid is.
Condensation
If it’s a hot day and you’ve been running your car’s AC, it’s perfectly normal to find a clear puddle of water under your vehicle. This puddle is simply condensation, a standard part of your air conditioner’s operation, and there’s no need for concern.
Oil
If the puddle you’ve found is oily and the color is light amber to black, your car is probably leaking engine oil. As long as the leak is small, you may be able to just add more oil to maintain the proper levels in your engine. If the leak is larger, there may be a more significant issue. Have your vehicle professionally inspected to find the source of the leak.
Power Steering or Transmission Fluids
Both power steering and transmission fluids range in color from bright red to brown. As with engine oil, you may be able to just check and top off the fluid levels if the leak is minor. If your car is leaking large amounts of any fluid, it’s best to have it inspected.
Brake Fluid
Do not drive if you ever see a slippery, pale yellow fluid under your vehicle. Your car could be leaking brake fluid, making it dangerous to drive. The brakes are your car’s primary safety feature. Don’t risk driving without them! Arrange for your vehicle to be towed to your trusted auto repair shop as soon as possible.
Coolant
Coolant can be any number of colors. Manufacturers add bright dyes ranging from orange to green to help distinguish coolant from other fluids. If your car runs low on coolant, you risk overheating your engine.
If you have any concerns about fluid leaking from your car, contact the team at Cool Green Auto. Our certified technicians will diagnose the issue, make any necessary repairs, and get you safely back on the road in no time. Schedule an appointment today!