It’s a sinking feeling – you walk up to your car and notice a puddle of mysterious liquid underneath. Fluid leaks are one of the most common issues that plague vehicles, and they can range from minor annoyances to serious problems. In this post, I’ll break down the common causes of fluid leaks, what’s involved in repairing them, and why My Auto Shop is the best choice for getting your car fixed.
Is that fluid leak serious? Here’s how to tell
The first step in diagnosing a fluid leak is to determine what type of fluid is leaking. Here’s a quick guide:
- Red fluid: This is likely transmission fluid or power steering fluid. Both are serious issues that require immediate attention.
- Orange fluid: This could be coolant that’s contaminated with rust. A coolant leak can lead to engine overheating and severe damage.
- Green, yellow, or pink fluid: These are all common coolant colours. A coolant leak needs to be addressed ASAP to prevent overheating.
- Brown fluid: If it’s thick and slippery, it’s probably engine oil. Even small oil leaks should be fixed promptly.
- Light yellow fluid: Brake fluid starts out light yellow and darkens over time. A brake fluid leak is a major safety issue that makes your car unsafe to drive.
If you’re unsure what type of fluid is leaking, try putting a piece of cardboard under your car overnight. In the morning, you’ll have a better idea of the fluid’s colour and consistency, as well as the location of the leak.
What happens during a fluid leak repair?
The specific repair process will depend on what type of fluid is leaking and where the leak is coming from. However, most fluid leak repairs involve the following steps:
- Diagnosing the issue using visual inspection and computerized scanning tools
- Draining the remaining fluid from the system
- Removing and replacing the damaged component (e.g. gasket, hose, seal)
- Refilling the system with fresh fluid and bleeding any air from the lines
- Testing the repair to ensure the leak is fully resolved
How much does it cost to fix a fluid leak in NZ?
The cost of repairing a fluid leak can vary depending on the type of fluid, the severity of the leak, and the make and model of your vehicle. Here are some rough estimates for common leak repairs in New Zealand:
- Oil leak: $200-$600+
- Coolant leak: $150-$750+
- Transmission fluid leak: $400-$1000+
- Power steering fluid leak: $200-$600+
- Brake fluid leak: $150-$600+
Keep in mind that these are just estimates – the actual cost of your repair may be higher or lower depending on your specific situation. It’s always a good idea to get a quote from a trusted mechanic before proceeding with any repairs.
Why choose My Auto Shop for your fluid leak repair?
At My Auto Shop, we understand that fluid leaks can be stressful and inconvenient. That’s why we offer mobile mechanic services that come to you, whether you’re at home or at work. Our skilled technicians can diagnose and repair most fluid leaks on the spot, getting you back on the road quickly and safely.
We pride ourselves on providing upfront, transparent pricing and exceptional customer service. With hundreds of 5-star reviews on Google, you can trust that your car is in good hands with My Auto Shop.
If you’ve noticed a worrying fluid leak coming from your vehicle, don’t wait – book an appointment with My Auto Shop today. We’ll have you sorted and leak-free in no time!