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There are times when you can identify a problem with your vehicle and other times when you may have no clue. Some ways to tell if you have car issues is by the sounds and sights coming from the vehicle. You may hear a grinding, screeching, or rattling noise signifying there is an issue. You may also see some things to help you discover there is a problem with the vehicle. Things like a loose part or a check engine light will also notify you there is an issue. It is important to take note of these signs so you can fix your vehicle before the problem worsens.

One of the biggest ways to tell there is an issue is by a fluid leak. Your vehicle is comprised of several different fluids. These fluids help make your vehicle run properly by lubricating the main parts. A fluid leak is not something that should ever be neglected. This means you have a problem somewhere with the vehicle. If you do spot fluid leaking from your vehicle, you need to identify what kind of fluid it is. This will help you determine what caused the leak in the first place.

Brake Fluid Leak

While riding down the road, you often see debris in the roads that could damage your vehicle. Of course, you try and maneuver around them, but it is not always feasible. A rock, stick, or other item in the road can puncture your brake hoses causing a leak. Sometimes the leak is larger and can be spotted fairly quickly, while other times it may only be a pinhole leak. If it is just a pinhole leak, you may not be able to tell unless you check the brake fluid level. If you see the level is low, you should immediately inspect your hoses for a hole.

Transmission Fluid Leak

Another type of leak you need to leery of is a transmission fluid leak. You want to make sure that your transmission is not leaking fluid. Should you notice some fluid coming out from under your vehicle that has a reddish color, it is likely transmission fluid. The most common cause of a transmission fluid leak is a loose pan. When your filter is replaced, the screws need to be tightened to ensure the pan remains intact. If this does not happen, you could end up leaking fluid.

Power Steering Fluid

When your vehicle doesn’t seem to be handling the same and you struggle to turn the steering wheel like normal, you can bet there is something wrong with your power steering. A power steering fluid leak is not something you want to happen, but it can as your vehicle ages. The seals and o-rings can lose their shape and cause a leak of fluid. The best way to prevent this is by replacing the seals as you see them starting to wear. You don’t want to lose power steering in your vehicle as it can become very dangerous to both you and your passengers.