You Are the Fluid Detective! (Leaking Fluids)
February 15, 2026
When you see some liquid sitting underneath your vehicle, your mind starts churning. Is that normal? Is that something serious, or did I just spill my drink? Here’s a quick list of what those fluids look, smell and feel like, as well as what they might be. No, we don’t recommend you taste them to verify.
• Clear and underneath your air conditioner or under the end of your tailpipe. It’s likely something as simple as condensed water. This probably doesn’t need immediate attention, but you should keep checking periodically.
• Oily, brown, golden or black. That could be the sign of engine oil leaking. Oil may also smell if it has been leaking on metal and burning. This is one you should have checked out fairly quickly.
• Green, blue, red, yellow, purple or orange and watery under the engine. Smells sweet. May be coolant (antifreeze) and a sign of a leaking radiator, hose or clamp. Also, could mean your water pump is shot or radiator is broken or cracked. The more that’s there, the more important it is for us to check it out soon.
• Yellow, slippery and smells a little foul. Could be brake fluid. This is one that you should bring to us quickly to have us inspect.
• Red or pinkish and collects under the engine or middle of your vehicle. Could be power steering fluid. Here’s another one that should be checked by a professional soon.
• Red or brown liquid from around your transmission or between your radiator and the transmission, smells sweet. You might smell burning from around your engine area, too. Might be transmission fluid. Another one where it’s important to have a pro look at it soon.
Your eyes and nose can be helpful to spotting things that need attention on your vehicle. When in doubt, head on over to see us so a technician can check it out. Taking care of it sooner rather than later could save you an expensive repair down the road.
Commerce Auto Repair
9575 Commerce Rd.
Commerce, Michigan 48382
248.363.3749
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