Dark brown spots underneath your automobile indicate that you have a fluid leak. This can be problematic no matter which automotive fluid is leaking out of your vehicle. Central Auto Care is going to explain why your fluid should never be dark brown as well as list the possible fluids that are leaking below. No matter which fluid it is, we can fix the leak.
Dark Brown Fluid Is Bad
Automotive fluids that have turned dark brown are too old. These fluids need to be changed before they reached this color. For example, if you don’t have your motor oil changed every 4,800 kilometres, it will turn dark brown. Your brake fluid should be changed every 48,000 kilometres, as should your transmission fluid. Failing to change these fluids causes them to oxidize and turn dark brown. Once they reach this stage, they are no longer doing their jobs effectively.
Brake Fluid Leak
If your dark brown spots are located around your wheels, your vehicle is leaking brake fluid. The lower the brake fluid gets, the more difficult it will be to stop your automobile. Brake fluid can leak out of the master cylinder as well as the brake lines.
Differential Oil Leak
If you see the fluid underneath your automobile near the back of it, you are likely leaking differential oil. This oil leaks out of your vehicle’s axles. If you’re driving an automobile that has a lot of kilometres on it, it’s common for it to develop a differential oil leak.
Oil Leak
If the dark brown spots are underneath your vehicle’s engine, you’ve got an oil leak. It’s important to get oil leaks found and fixed right away because an engine with low oil is a damaged engine. The oil is the lifeblood of your vehicle’s engine, and low levels of this crucial fluid will cause your vehicle to overheat, which can cause serious engine damage.
Transmission Oil Leak
Finally, transmission oil (which is also called transmission fluid) will leak from the center of your automobile. If it is dark brown, continuing to drive your automobile will damage your transmission. In fact, you are likely having problems shifting gears and getting your vehicle into gear if the fluid is dark brown.
Central Auto Care is the best auto repair shop in Okotoks, AB, and, as we mentioned above, we can find your fluid leak and fix it. Give our shop a call today to schedule an appointment for faster service.