Fluids are the life blood of the vehicle. If something has metal parts and moves, then fluid is most likely lubricating it. There are lots of moving parts in a car and many kinds of fluids.Fortunately, fluids differ in color, texture, and smell. Knowing more about vehicular fluids makes you a little more wiser to what your car is telling you.

First, it is not unusual to see water dripping from your vehicle, especially during the summer time. Water from the AC  system is one of the most common fluids you may find. Water is formed when moisture in the air comes into contact with the system and condenses. It usually drips under the center right or center left of the vehicle. Don’t panic. This is a normal byproduct, and seeing this under your car is no cause for alarm.

Engine oil and coolant are two other common fluids you may see on your garage floor. Engine oil feels slippery and may have a dirty, burnt-rubber smell and dark brown to black in color.  Engine coolant is usually watery and slippery to the touch. It may be light green, yellow, pink, blue, or even purple - depending on what type of car your drive. A puddle between 1 and 2 inches wide is referred to as "seepage" or a "drip." This is your signal to take your car to the doctor because it’s about to get really sick. A puddle 3 inches or wider under your car is considered a serious leak and requires immediate attention. Ignoring these two leaks could result in catastrophic engine failure.

Less common fluids you may find under your vehicle are transmission fluid, power steering fluid, differential fluid and maybe - brake fluid. Transmission fluid and power steering fluids are usually reddish brown in color and feel oily. Differential fluid is easy to determine because it is dark in color and has a highly objectionable smell similar to that of rotten eggs. Any brakefluid leak is serious. Usually, you will notice a mushy or soft brake pedal before you see fluid on the ground.  A brake fluid leak will quickly result in the loss of your brakes entirely and without notice. Get your car to the shop immediately and safely.

Take fluid leaks seriously. Any fluid leak can potential be serious problem and should be checked out by a professional immediately. Ignoring the leaks just delays the inevitable and could quickly cost you more money in repairs or jeopardize your safety.