Question-------------------------
Followup To
Question - Hi again, actually, it is the oil. We can't figure out why it would be pouring out like it is. Any ideas? Could it just be a bad seal or o ring? What type of oil would you reccomend for this vehicle?
------------------------
Followup To Could you tell me what may cause this leak?
Question -
I own a 1999 323i. This morning I noticed fluid leaking from the front of the car. I don't know if it is coming from Oil or Transmission. It is leaking alot. A puddle was left in the gargae. Can you tell me what could cause this? How do I know if it is transmission fluid or oil?
Thank you.
Answer -
Brenda,
When you see the puddle, either wipe your finger through the fluid or dip a paper towel into it. If it's brown, it's likely Engine Oil. If it's red it's likely Transmission fluid. If it's Green it's likely that it is AntiFreeze.
If it is leaking badly, you need to get this checked ASAP. I would Check the engine oil immediately to see if it's low. if it is, top it off with the correct motor oil, and then check it after driving a short distance.
Hope this helps,
Josh
Answer -
Brenda,
I cant answer that til I know what's leaking. The radiator leaks antifreeze, the transmission leaks transmission fluid, and the Engine leaks Engine oil. Any one of these could have several posibilities for leaks, so without knowing what type of fluid is leaking, how much, and where it's leaking, I have NO CLUE.
I will need more specific information before I can continue.
Here's what I need:
If you determine it is Antifreeze leaking onto the floor, find out where it's leaking from. I mean EXACTLY which hose it's leaking from.
If you determine it is motor oil, where on the engine is the leak? Front of engine, rear of engine? Sometimes the leaks can be from the valve cover, but they run down the engine and look like they are coming from somewhere else.
Transmissions are (for the most part) simple to find leaks. It's either the front seal or the rear (with manual tranny). With an Automatic it could be the pan that is leaking as well.
So first thing I would do is to check all of your fluids, check the engine oil, antifreeze (make sure engine is not hot, you will burn yourself), and transmission fluid. If they are not empty, let the car idle, and watch underneath for drips. you can put a piece of cardboard down to catcht he drips and help locate them easier. To determine what the fluid is, use a white paper towel, so the color of the fluid will be easily determined.
I didn't think about this til now, but it "could" be powersteering was well.
Hope this helps,
Josh
AnswerBrenda,
Great that you know what type of fluid it is. Make sure you DO NOT run the engine low on oil. Instead of fixing a leak you will be replacing an engine! If the engine oil gets a quart low then replace it... dont let it get any lower.
A common spot for a leak is the rear main seal. This is the seal around the crankshaft where the transmission meets the engine. It can be replaced in several hours by any competent mechanic. You should also check the valve cover and oil pressure regulator. These are also notorious spots for leaks.
The rest is up to you, find the leak and then take it somewhere to be replaced. ONCE AGAIN.... DO NOT LET THE ENGINE RUN LOW ON OIL.... CHECK IT EVERY DAY or SOONER!!!!
