Why is My Car Leaking Water?

If you notice water leaking from under your car, don’t panic! Chances are it’s from your car’s air conditioning system, especially if it’s a hot day in Normal. It’s normal for the system to create condensation when it’s activated, which can leave a water spot under your car after it’s been parked for a while. These little puddles will be near the back of the engine compartment and even the tailpipe. That said, you want to make sure that the liquid you’re seeing is really water and not another fluid that’s vital to your vehicle. Take a look at how to identify what fluid is leaking from your car with the service department at Leman's Chevrolet City Llc. 

Is My Car Leaking Water or is It Something Else? 

When you notice a puddle underneath your car in Decatur, you’ll want to make sure that it’s water and not another engine fluid. Here’s the easiest way to find out if your car is leaking water or something else: 

• Place a sheet of white paper under the leak. If the leaking liquid shows up blue, green, or yellow, it’s probably coolant — not water.
• A large amount of water leaking from your exhaust is a sign of a blown gasket causing coolant to be burned along with the fuel. You’ll also see a lot of white smoke coming from your exhaust when you start your car. 
• If your car is leaking coolant, check the level to make sure you have enough to drive the car. If it’s low, schedule a service appointment as soon as possible. 
• If the fluid is pale blue, it might be a leak coming from a cracked windshield wiper fluid reservoir. Cracks can occur when water is placed in the reservoir. The water freezes in the reservoir, expands, and can cause the plastic container to crack. Wiper fluid leaks can usually be found by the front tires.

If you find anything other than water leaking from your car, you should pay a visit to our service department.

What Fluid is Leaking from My Car?

If your paper test turns up a color that indicates your car is leaking something other than water, here’s a guide to decipher what’s leaking. Any of these leaking liquids need to be checked by a professional near Springfield: 

• Red – Transmission Fluid or Power Steering Fluid
• Orange – Transmission Fluid or Radiator Coolant
• Yellow – Radiator Coolant
• Green – Antifreeze from Water Pump, Hoses, or Radiator
• Blue – Windshield Wiper Fluid
• Dark Brown – Brake Fluid or Older Engine Oil
• Light Brown – Newer Engine Oil or Gear Lubricant
• Pink – Power Steering Fluid or Transmission Fluid

If any of these liquids have leaked onto your driveway or street parking spot, please clean them up. They can be hazardous to any animals, including pets, who ingest them. 

Stay Safe on Bloomington Streets with Leman's Chevrolet City Llc!

At Leman's Chevrolet City Llc we want you to be able to keep your car in tip-top shape without spending a lot of money! If your car is leaking water or other fluid and needs to be checked, take a look at our service specials. We want you to save money when you visit us!