Uh Oh, Red Fluid Under My Car! What Could It Be?

Seeing a puddle of red fluid under your car can be alarming. Red fluid under your vehicle usually points to one of a few key systems.


The Typical Suspects:

  • Transmission Fluid:
  • This is often the most common reason for red fluid. Transmission fluid is used in automatic transmissions to lubricate and cool the complex gears and components inside.
  • Usually bright red, but can darken to a brownish-red with age. It often has a sweet or slightly burnt smell.
  • Importance: Low transmission fluid can lead to serious transmission damage and even complete failure.


  • Power Steering Fluid:
  • Power steering fluid helps you turn your steering wheel with ease.
  • Usually a lighter, more transparent red than transmission fluid.
  • Importance: A power steering fluid leak can make steering difficult and dangerous.


  • Coolant (Antifreeze):
  • While most coolant is green or yellow, some manufacturers use red coolant.
  • Can be bright red, pink, or even orange. It often has a sweet, syrupy smell.
  • Importance: Coolant leaks can lead to engine overheating and severe damage.


What to Do:

  1. Safety First: Don't drive your car if you suspect a major leak.
  2. If you're comfortable, check the fluid levels of your transmission, power steering, and coolant.
  3. Don't Ignore It: Even a small leak can indicate a serious problem.


Important Considerations:

  • The color of the fluid can sometimes be misleading, especially if it's mixed with other fluids or dirt.


Give us a call and let us take care of you.

Happy adventures,

Heather



Our specials can be found here - Specials - J & H Automotive, Inc 

Ready to make an appointment … Appointments - J & H Automotive, Inc 

Want to know more … About Us - J & H Automotive, Inc 

Would you like to join our merry band of misfits? Careers - J & H Automotive, Inc 


 

Want to know more…

https://www.facebook.com/JHAutomotiveInc                   

https://www.pinterest.com/jhautoinc

Instagram photos and videos

LinkedIn
 


By jhautoinc January 30, 2026
These are vital to keep you safe on the road.
By jhautoinc January 27, 2026
Your engine will thank you.
By jhautoinc January 23, 2026
They help keep your engine cool.
By jhautoinc January 20, 2026
They need maintenance to keep them running.
By jhautoinc January 17, 2026
It's better for your engine. 
By jhautoinc January 13, 2026
They are more important than you know.
By jhautoinc January 10, 2026
A spark plug gap can cause a misfire.
By Bobby Poist January 7, 2026
They're important to keep you safe on the road.
By jhautoinc January 3, 2026
It's more often than you think.
By jhautoinc December 31, 2025
Batteries really don't like cold weather