Brown or black, oily
Check within a few days- Engine oil: valve cover, sump or filter housing gasket
- Gearbox oil
- Shaft seal
The fault can get worse and more expensive. Drive carefully and book a diagnosis.
Puddle under the car — how to tell what’s leaking?
The colour and consistency of the fluid under the car say a lot about the cause. Clear water in summer is usually AC condensation. Brown or black oil, coloured coolant or brake fluid need checking — especially brake fluid, as it affects safety.
Most common variants and causes
Green, pink or blue
Check within a few days- Coolant: hose, radiator, water pump
- Washer fluid (harmless)
- Heater core — if damp inside the cabin
The fault can get worse and more expensive. Drive carefully and book a diagnosis.
Clear, like water
Safe to drive- A/C condensation — normal in summer
- Brake fluid (slightly yellow, slippery) — dangerous
- Fuel — noticeable smell
Not urgent, but don’t put it off — book a visit at a convenient time.
What you can check yourself
- Put a sheet of white cardboard under the car overnight — it’s easier to judge the colour and the leak’s location.
- Check the oil, coolant and brake fluid levels.
- Notice the smell: sweetish means coolant, fuel you’ll smell right away.
- Note whether the puddle is at the front, middle or rear of the car.
How we check it in the workshop
On a lift we find the source of the leak — sometimes after cleaning the engine and a short drive. We give you a quote for replacing the seal, hose or part before the repair.
This is guidance only, not a diagnosis. We’ll find the exact cause at our workshop in Bielany — you approve the quote before any work starts.
Frequently asked questions
Water dripping from under the car in summer — is it normal?
Yes, if it’s clear water from under the middle of the car with the AC on. It’s condensation from the evaporator.
Is a small oil leak dangerous?
Not immediately in itself, but oil dripping onto a hot exhaust manifold can catch fire, and a low level harms the engine. It’s worth fixing.
How do I recognise brake fluid?
It’s clear or slightly yellow and slippery, usually near the wheels. With a leak like that, limit driving and give us a call.
Other symptoms
Check engine light is onKnocking over bumpsCar pulls / steering off-centreBrake problemA/C not cooling or smellsCar won’t startRattling from the engineExhaust smoke / loss of powerJerky gearbox or clutchEngine is overheatingCar jerks when accelerating
Not sure? Take the symptom test (2 clicks)