That Puddle Under Your Vehicle

When it comes to auto ownership few problems can be as concerning, frustrating and ultimately expensive as fluid links. It seems like nothing can draw more attention and concern than a puddle underneath your vehicle. The one thing that you can be sure of is that its new and was not there before- otherwise you would have spotted it.

Make it a point of your daily driving routine to check for vehicle leaks as well as to verify fluid levels of your vehicle. Its just part of regular preventive maintenance.

If you note a green or pink watery type liquid ( as opposed to oil type leaks), that is under your automotive vehicles in puddles , think of antifreeze leaks. Some vehicles , including busses or vehicles run year round in warm climates , where winter freeze up never occurs , may run simply on 100 % water. Regardless a leak of radiator fluid indicates coolant loss. This may result in damaging engine overheating. Engines should not run very hot for too long. In cold Manitoba and Alberta winters , loss or even lower levels of radiator glycol antifreeze coolant will result in a cold car in which the auto interior heater never seems to work , or put out much heat. If you cannot get engine heat how can you defrost your windshield ? Its thus not only a convenience and comfort issue but also one of roadside safety.

Next in line is brake fluid. Loss of brake fluid can be downright dangerous as you may well have lost braking ability. Transmission fluid loss can lead to mechanical failures down the line. It can be checked via dipstick under the hood. Both transmission and power steering fluids are similar products ” a light oil type liquid usually with a reddish, almost rose color. Gasoline itself can leak from a tank. You should be able to discern and odor if gas leaks. Take great care as gas itself is very flammable, and on top of that a gas leak can lead to an engine fire.

There are a couple of type of engine and auto fluids that can leak, that which though not as common can be troublesome and as well should draw notice and attention. Simple motor oil leaking from the oil drip pan on the bottom of your auto engine. These are downright unsightly and will stain driveways and roadways. Its usually a slow leak, which does not drain the engine but will do damage to property and cause unsightly stains.

It is an amazing fact when it comes to company cars. Some of these drivers have nothing but mechanical troubles , downtime and straight misfortune when it comes to their vehicles , repair costs , time off the road for auto vehicle repairs , and even safety concerns when it comes to B.C. and Alberta mountain driving. Other commercial drivers seem to have trouble free vehicle maintenance reports. In most cases experienced Edmonton based auto industry analyst M.U. Labovitch notes it comes down to simple preventative and ongoing vehicle maintenance schedules and routines.