Ask a Technician: Why Are Fluids Leaking From My Car?

If you notice fluids leaking from your vehicle, it's time to schedule an appointment with DCH Toyota of Oxnard. Here's a guide to the issues that might be at fault—and why you need to get them resolved quickly.

If you’re sure it’s not oil, it could be one of the following: transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, or coolant, or some cocktail of each of them. Check all the fluid levels and see if you can determine what’s low. 

Why leaking fluids are important

All sorts of things can go wrong with low fluids. You might lose brake pressure and the loss of power steering might make the car nearly impossible to steer. Loss of coolant may indicate a loose or pulled hose which can lead to overheating. Transmission leaks may indicate a leaky seal and can lead to major service if the fluid gets too low.

All of these things can be mission-critical if you’ve lost enough fluid. To help you determine what’s leaking you need to consider three things: location, color, and consistency.

• Transmission fluid: Middle front, red, and oily
• Coolant: Front, yellow or green, and slightly oily
• Power steering or brake fluid: Near the tires or under brake pedal, clear and oily
• Windshield washer fluid: Near the windshield washer reservoir, a variety of colors, very watery

When you follow the manufacturer's factory-recommended maintenance schedule, you're much less likely to run into issues like this one. Visit the experts at the DCH Toyota of Oxnard service department for affordable, efficient service, and the answers to all your vehicle maintenance questions.