It may seem strange to list automotive fluids in order of their color. This being said, it is the best way you can determine what is leaking out your truck, utility vehicle, or car. Take a towel to soak up any liquid on the garage floor. The fluid’s identity can be checked using our handy guide.
Blue
If the fluid is blue, it is likely to be the windshield washing solution. The solution is also used to de-ice your windshield during the cold winter months. However, it is possible that the cooling system contains blue coolant/antifreeze. If the engine is cold, check the radiator for its color.
Brown
Some automotive fluids may be brown. You already know that motor oil has a brown color. It may be hard to believe, but the differential oil, too, is brown. Most brake fluids in an automobile will be brown. You can also see leaking brown fluid if your transmission fluid is contaminated.
Clear
Clear fluid is almost always water. While your vehicle runs, both the tailpipe as well the air conditioner release condensation. To ensure that the fluid does not smell like fuel, it is important to sniff it. If it does smell like fuel, you should not drive your vehicle. Driving the vehicle with a fuel leak can start a fire.
Green
Coolant/antifreeze also comes in green. This is usually neon-green. This bright color can be hard to miss, especially if it’s located on your garage flooring. If your engine is cold, you can inspect the radiator or overflow reservoir to check the color of the coolant/antifreeze.
Orange
If the radiator in your cooling system is extremely old, it may be rusted on the inside. Consequently, this can turn the coolant color orange. In addition, the coolant may be originally orange, as antifreeze/coolant comes in this color.
Red
Red is another color in which coolant/antifreeze is available. To determine if your car has a coolant problem, check the levels of fluid in the radiator or overflow reservoir. Transmission oil, like power steering fluid is red, can also be checked and is also red.
Yellow
There may be neon yellow coolant/antifreeze in your cooling system. If your car is leaking coolant/antifreeze, it’s best to not drive it.
We can fix the automotive fluid leak in your car. Call us today to set up an appointment that works well with your daily schedule. We will get you in and out of our shop as soon as possible.
