Finding and fixing a fluid leak can be a challenge. Working space is tight and
there are dozens of connections, many hidden from sight, from which fluids can
be lost.
Among these are:
Antifreeze
Gasoline
Engine oil
Transmission fluid
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Lubricant from CV joint boots or, on rear drive vehicles, the rear axle.
Windshield washer solvent
A leak can lead to serious consequences, says the Car Care Council. Run out of
brake fluid and you've run out of brakes. Run out of power steering fluid and
you'll have to strong-arm it. When either anti-freeze coolant, engine oil or transmission
fluid level gets too low, you can cause serious damage to the engine and/or transmission.
All of this information, in one form or another, is in the vehicle owner's manual,
one of the most widely distributed and least read publications in literary history.
Unlike in automobile racing, most motorists take their vehicles for granted .
. . until something goes wrong.
Keep your engine clean so you can find a leak and point it out to your technician.
Also, be on the alert for telltale drips where the vehicle is parked. Use a large
sheet of paper under the area where the drip is seen, to identify the fluid.
