Determining the cause of leaks

The formation of puddles in the parking lot, traces of fluid under the hood or on parts in the lower part of the car indicate leaks and the need to find the cause. Sometimes it is very difficult to determine the location of a leak, especially if the engine compartment and engine themselves are covered in dirt. Oil or fluid leaks at the bottom of the vehicle can be blown back by the airflow while driving and mislead as to the true location of the leak.

Oil pan

Oil may be leaking from the oil pan drain plug...

Oil leakage from the filter

...or from under the oil filter.

Transmission

Transmission oil can leak from the axle shaft seals at the exit from the differential protective boot.

Antifreeze

Antifreeze leaks can often be identified by such crystalline deposits.

Brake fluid

Leakage of fluid from the hydraulic drive of the brakes leaves marks on the tire.

Hydraulic steering fluid

A fluid leak from the hydraulic drive of the steering can develop from the fittings.