Oil leaks are a common problem in older vehicles. What you should do when you first notice an oil leak is attempt to identify the type of oil. A vehicle contains various types of fluids and determining which fluid is leaking will help isolate the leak and just how serious a problem this may be. Hopefully; it goes without saying that if your engine is running when you notice a leak, shut it off immediately if the leak is more like a stream of fluid. The loss of a large amount of fluid can spell disaster for engines and transmissions. Identification Motor oil is brown to black, depending on how long it has been since your last oil change. Transmission fluid is red to rust colored, dependent on its condition. Note* if your transmission fluid is rust colored, service it as soon as possible. The fluid in a vehicle’s differential case(s), commonly called rear-end grease, is similar to motor oil but of a heavier weight. Brake fluid is relatively clear. Power steering fluid can range from red to brown dependent on the manufacturer and the age. If the leak is nothing more than a spot on the ground, or pavement, this isn’t an emergency situation. If you aren’t able to determine the fluid type, check all your fluid levels according to the vehicle’s manufacturer instructions found in the owner’s manual. Add fluid/oil only as needed. A level that is higher than recommended can cause damage just as too low a level can. Never add extra fluid. Mechanic, or DIY The places oil can leak from are as extensive as the variety of different fluids a vehicle contains. If you aren’t mechanically inclined, schedule a visit to the repair shop as soon as possible. A minor leak may not be an emergency situation but it is certainly not something to take lightly. It can be an early warning sign of something that will get progressively worse. Best case scenario; it is damaging to the environment. It can also degrade asphalt pavement and permanently stain cement. If you’re ready to tackle this problem yourself take note of where the leak is located in relation to the vehicle. Visually inspect the underside of your vehicle, paying close attention to the areas around drain plugs, removable pans, the oil filter and where major components are attached. An example of this is where the engine and transmission are connected. Safety First Unless the vehicle has a high ground clearance you will likely need to raise the vehicle up in order to perform an inspection. Take all the proper safety precautions if this is necessary. If you’re not sure what safety precautions are necessary, you have no business under a car. Take it to a local garage. Never go under a vehicle while it is supported only by a jack! Tracing the Path If spatters are visible, trace the spatters backwards to the source of the leak. Fluid leaking while traveling will spatter with the velocity of the air flow. The more fluid spatter that is visible, the closer you are to the source of the leak. Oil pans can become damaged from scraping over a high curb, or a stone ricocheting up from the road surface. Drain plugs have been known to become loose when not properly torqued after servicing. Leaking inside the engine compartment is also possible. Inspect the area around power steering pumps and the base of dipsticks. If you aren’t able to identify the source of the leak, or if once you’ve found it you don’t have the tools and skills to fix it, at least you will be able to go to the repair shop armed with some knowledge about what needs done. Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil
