Car Service: Determining when a car repair is needed after a fluid leak is suspect!

Do you have a fluid leak under your car or truck and need a car service? Before you head out for that car repair, you can be your own private investigator. If you’re not sure whether you are losing oil, transmission fluid, coolant or brake fluid, here is a simple, but effective method for finding out what it is! Knowing this increases the effectiveness of your communication so you know you are getting the correct car repair.

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Place an old white sheet or large piece of white cardboard under your vehicle overnight. In the morning you will have your answer. The different color of each type of fluid will help you diagnose the answer to help you determine what kind of car repair or car service will be required.

Check the colors listed below to give you an indication of what is leaking:

• Bright Green: radiator coolant; also slippery to the touch.
• Light or Dark Brown: Light brown; freshly changed oil, otherwise, you will see a darker brown.
• Bright Blue: windshield washer fluid. (Winter washer fluids can be orange, pink or yellow).
• Light Brown: if there is also a strong odor of rotten eggs, this is gear lube that may be leaking from the rear axle center section or the manual transmission.
• Red Fluid: Automatic transmission fluid or power steering fluid. Note where the fluid is coming from – it could be long-life coolant.
• Clear: Power steering fluid or water from the condenser on the A/C unit.
• Light Yellow: Brake fluid is light yellow when new. It becomes a dark muddy brown as it absorbs water. Brake fluid absorbs 2% water over a one year period under normal braking conditions. It’s important to change this fluid at least every other year.
• Amber: Gasoline, along with a distinct odor.

Keep a sharp eye on your vehicle; leaks can be frustrating and even dangerous. If you’re unsure if a car repair is needed, go to a professional certified mechanic for expert car service. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians today for expert advice by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. We are open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. to better serve our customers. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.