Something under the car?
Fluid Leak Identifier
Match the colour and texture to narrow down what you're seeing — then check the matching level.
Clear water
Often just A/C condensation dripping from under the middle of the car. Harmless and normal, especially on warm days.
Brown or black oily fluid
Likely engine oil. Smooth and slippery, sometimes with a dark honey look when fresh.
Check the level when coldGreen / orange / pink fluid
Likely coolant. Often sweet-smelling, slippery, and slightly syrupy.
Check the level when coldRed or brown fluid
Possibly transmission fluid or power-steering fluid, depending on your car. Usually reddish and oily.
Check the level when coldClear or yellowish fluid
Possibly brake fluid. Thin, slightly oily, and corrosive to paint — do not ignore it.
Check the level when coldBlue fluid
Likely windshield washer fluid. Usually harmless but check the reservoir is not cracked.
Quick fluid reference
Engine oil
Colour: Amber when new; darkens with use · Where: Dipstick or dashboard sensor
Low oil can destroy an engine
Engine coolant
Colour: Green, orange, pink, blue, or purple · Where: Plastic reservoir with MIN/MAX
Pressurized when hot — never open hot
Brake fluid
Colour: Clear to pale yellow; darkens with age · Where: Small reservoir near the firewall
Critical to braking — low level may mean a leak
Windshield washer
Colour: Blue or yellow · Where: Reservoir with a spray symbol
None — safest fluid to top up yourself
Power steering
Colour: Red or amber (hydraulic systems only) · Where: Cap marked "steering" or with a wheel symbol
The required fluid varies — check the manual
Transmission fluid
Colour: Red when new; darkens with heat · Where: Often no user-serviceable dipstick
Procedures differ widely — professional job
Colour varies by product and vehicle and is never a definitive identification. Note the colour, texture, and where it sits under the car, then mention it to your mechanic.
