Few problems are as troubling as realizing that your car is leaking fluid. In addition to making you wonder whether or not your vehicle is safe to drive, you may also worry about auto repair timelines. Fortunately, being able to determine the cause of the fluid leak can help you to anticipate the need for auto repairs. Here are three easy ways to determine the cause of car leaks. 

Tips for Understanding Auto Leaks

1. Check the Fluid Color

One of the easiest ways to determine what is causing an auto leak is by carefully evaluating the color of the fluid. After placing some cardboard underneath your car and letting the vehicle sit for a while, check the board for accumulations and use a white paper towel to sop up some of the fluid to check the color. 

Motor oil will appear light brown to black, brake fluid may look light yellow to dark green, power steering fluid is typically red, and coolant is usually yellow, lime green, or pink. Transmission fluid is orange, so carefully evaluate the color before you continue driving your car. 

2. Inspect Your Fluid Reservoirs 

Another simple way to determine where car leaks are stemming from is by evaluating the levels in your car’s fluid reservoirs. Look to see if any of them are low, and refill them as necessary. Chart how often you are topping off fluids, and report problems if you notice you are continuously refilling reservoirs that should remain full. 

3. Take Your Car to a Professional

While doing your own detective work can be helpful, there are instances when fluid color is hard to determine, and you can’t quite tell which reservoirs are running lower than they should be. In instances like these, consider simply taking your car into an auto repair professional to have it checked out. Within no time, you will have the cause of the issue, and they can make the proper repairs to stay safe on the road. 

If you are struggling with car problems, and you need to get to the root of the issue, turn to G & J Auto Center in Columbia, MO. With more than 34 years of auto repair experience and a commitment to creating an excellent environment for customers, they will help you to get your car back on the road quickly and efficiently. Learn more about them by visiting the website or give them a call at (573) 474-5819.