Seeing fluid under your vehicle can be unsettling—but it doesn’t always mean something serious is wrong. Some leaks are harmless, while others signal a problem that needs immediate attention. Before you panic, start with two simple questions:
- Where is the leak coming from?
- What color is the fluid?
Answering these helps narrow down what your vehicle might be leaking and how urgent the issue is.
Step 1: Confirm the Leak Is From Your Vehicle
First, make sure the fluid isn’t coming from a car that was parked there before you. If you’re unsure, carefully look under your vehicle using a flashlight or phone light. Once you’ve confirmed the leak is yours, slide a piece of white cardboard or paper beneath the drip. The color it leaves behind offers the biggest clue about what’s leaking.
Step 2: What the Fluid Color Means
Red or Pink
Likely: Transmission fluid or power steering fluid
These fluids should never leak. Red or pink fluid indicates a failing seal, hose, or component that needs professional attention right away.
Orange
Possible: Rust-contaminated coolant or old transmission fluid
Orange coolant usually means rust inside the radiator. Old transmission fluid can also appear orange. Either way, it’s not a good sign—don’t ignore it.
Yellow
Likely: Coolant
Coolant leaks often appear yellow, neon green, or even bright pink, depending on your vehicle. Using the wrong coolant type can increase the likelihood of leaks.
Brown
Dark brown: Often brake fluid or old engine oil
Light brown: Fresh engine oil
Both mean it’s time to see a mechanic. Brake fluid leaks are especially dangerous and should be addressed immediately.
Clear
This is usually nothing to worry about.
Clear water-like liquid is typically condensation from the air conditioning system—completely normal and safe.
Visit Casey’s Tire & Brake for Expert Leak Diagnostics & Repair
Fluid leaks can cause major damage if left untreated. At Casey’s Tire & Brake, our skilled technicians will identify the source of the leak, explain what it means, and recommend the right repair to keep your vehicle running safely.
Don’t wait for a small drip to become a big problem. Protect your vehicle with fast, reliable service from the team you trust.
