Cars use half a dozen fluids, each a different color and consistency. Identifying a leak by what's on the ground is the fastest way to know whether to drive to the shop or call for a tow.
Clear and Watery
Usually just condensation from the air conditioning, dripping near the front-center on a hot day. Normal. If it's slick or smells sweet, it's coolant instead.
Green, Orange, or Pink and Slippery
Coolant, also called antifreeze. It has a sweet smell. A coolant leak can lead to overheating, so don't ignore it — and keep pets away, because it's toxic.
Reddish or Brown and Oily
Transmission fluid or power steering fluid. Fresh transmission fluid is red; older fluid turns brown. Low transmission fluid can cause slipping or harsh shifts.
Dark Brown or Black and Slick
Engine oil. A few drops now and then is worth watching; a spreading puddle or a burning smell means get it checked before you run low.
Clear-to-Yellow and Oily near a Wheel
Brake fluid. This one is a safety issue — if you find it, especially with a soft brake pedal, have the vehicle towed rather than driven.
Leak Diagnosis for Albuquerque's North Valley
We're at 4201 4th St NW in the North Valley. If you're not sure what you're looking at, our oil & fluid leak diagnosis uses dye and pressure testing to pin down the source.