The various fluids are essential to ensure the proper functioning of a car. Sometimes, it is not easy to notice that an implant begins to leak. However, there are several tricks that help identify a leak before it turns into a more serious problem.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Recognizing a Blemish Leak
Step 1. Place card stock, newspaper or aluminum foil under the machine
If you have noticed stains or small puddles under the vehicle, but are not sure which liquid it is, this method gives you valuable information to identify the leak.
Step 2. Leave the vehicle parked overnight
This way, you give the fluid ample time to drip onto the material you have laid out.
Step 3. Check the surface you put under the car
Note where the drops fell in relation to the position of the tires. This detail allows you to narrow the field of probable implants that are leaking liquid.
Step 4. Inspect the texture and color of the spots
The various liquids in a machine are all different, both in color and in viscosity.
- If you notice black and or brownish spots that have an intermediate viscosity, it is oil. The presence of a few drops may be normal, but for any major leakage, a check should be made.
- The reddish, brownish, or black spots found in the center of the machine are usually attributable to the transmission fluid.
- If the color is the same as that of the transmission fluid, but the drops are on the front of the car, the leak is affecting the power steering system.
- Finding light brownish, very slippery spots indicates a brake fluid leak.
- The antifreeze liquid is recognizable because it leaves bright and colored spots. The coolant is available in various colors, such as green, red and yellow.
Method 2 of 3: Check the Tanks
Step 1. Check the user and maintenance manual to find out which liquids you can check at home
The manual should also tell you the quantities of fluids and what type of antifreeze was used for the machine.
If one of the warning lights on the dashboard has come on, the manual also provides information about the corresponding problem (usually oil or coolant). When one of these lights comes on, there may be a leak
Step 2. Park the car on a level surface
If it goes uphill or downhill, you may get incorrect fluid level readings, either over or under. It is important to perform this check on a flat surface.
Step 3. Find the engine oil rod probe
On many models this piece has a yellow handle. If you have difficulty finding the probe, consult the user and maintenance manual.
- Take out the stick, clean it with a rag or paper towel and put it back in its slot. Pull it out again and examine it in a horizontal position. There are two indicator marks on the probe: the first indicates the maximum level and the second the minimum. The engine fluid level should be between these two marks.
- If the amount of engine oil is correct, clean the probe again with a cloth and return it to its place in the tank. If the level is not between the two notches, there may be a leak.
Step 4. Find the coolant reservoir
Carry out this operation with the engine cold and check that the fluid level is between the minimum and maximum marks on the tank itself.
Sometimes it is necessary to unscrew the radiator cap to carefully inspect the amount of coolant. If the level is below the minimum line or the tank is completely empty, you undoubtedly have a leak in this system
Step 5. Find the power steering fluid reservoir
This is the vessel that contains the fluid necessary for the steering to function.
Step 6. Make sure it's hot
Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes, while turning the steering in one direction and another for a few times.
Step 7. Turn off the engine
This should be done before checking fluid levels.
Step 8. Remove the steering fluid reservoir cap by turning it counterclockwise
The stick probe is usually fixed under the cap itself and is equipped with a reference mark. If the liquid level is below this mark or the probe is completely dry, the system has a leak.
Step 9. Inspect the master cylinder reservoir
There should be a reference line on the side of it. If you can't see the liquid clearly, you can unscrew the cap and look inside the container.
If there is little fluid or it is completely exhausted, there is a leak in the brake system. It is normal for the level of this fluid to go down as the brake pads wear. If you believe this is the reason for the level reduction, add some fluid and perform a second inspection in the following days. If the level has changed again, there is undoubtedly a loss; if not, you can assume that the previous drop in fluid was due to wear on the pads
Step 10. Check the wiper fluid reservoir
Most of these containers are clear, so you shouldn't have a hard time checking the fluid level. If your car has a different tank, consult the user and maintenance manual.
Since this liquid runs out much faster, it may be difficult to notice a leak. However, if you refilled the tank the previous week and it is now empty or nearly empty, there may be a spill
Method 3 of 3: Contact a Mechanic
Step 1. Pay attention to the signs that indicate continuous loss
If the machine is leaking and you are unable to repair it, you should call the repair shop and make an appointment.
Step 2. Pay attention to the warning lights
Even if you think you've solved the problem, you should still go to a mechanic if the lights don't go out; it could be an indicator that the leak has not been repaired or that the sensor is in need of an overhaul.
Step 3. Go to a mechanical workshop
If you are unable to quickly repair the fluid leak, you should take the car to a mechanic. All liquids are essential for the vehicle to function safely.
Advice
- The presence of a sweet smell inside or near the car indicates a leak of antifreeze.
- Some cars do not have the rod probe for transmission fluid. If you notice any stains that could come from this system, you must take the car to a mechanical workshop.
