Why Is My Car Leaking Fluid?

September 12, 2024

Why Is My Car Leaking Fluid?


If you've been putting off that transmission service, it might be time to reconsider. At Wayside Garage, we recently had a 2014 Ford C-Max come in with a fluid leak that seemed to be engine oil at first. Upon inspection, however, we discovered it was actually transmission fluid leaking from a worn transmission cooler line. This isn't uncommon, especially in older vehicles. Over time, seals can become brittle, allowing transmission fluid to leak and cause serious damage.


What Causes Transmission Leaks?

Transmission cooler lines are vital to regulating the temperature of your transmission. These lines transport fluid to the cooler, preventing the transmission from overheating. Unfortunately, the seals that connect the cooler lines to the transmission can become hard and brittle with age and mileage, allowing fluid to seep out. Once the fluid leaks, your transmission could face overheating and internal damage.


In this case, we also noticed the transmission fluid had deteriorated, turning color and smelling burnt. That’s a clear sign it’s time for service. Catching it early and getting the fluid replaced and the cooler line repaired avoided a much more expensive transmission repair.


The Importance of Regular Transmission Service

Transmission fluid plays a critical role in lubricating the moving parts of your transmission and keeping it cool. As vehicles age, regular transmission service is necessary to prevent wear and tear, as well as costly repairs. At Wayside Garage, we recommend servicing your transmission every 30,000 miles or every three years, whichever comes first. This service includes replacing the fluid, inspecting the transmission, and addressing any potential issues before they escalate.


Signs You Need Transmission Service:

- Fluid leaks under your car
- Delayed shifting or slipping gears
- A burnt smell or discolored transmission fluid
- Strange noises while driving, especially when shifting gears


The Cost-Effective Approach to Car Ownership

Maintaining your vehicle with regular inspections and transmission service is much more affordable than replacing the transmission—or worse, the entire car. Transmissions are one of the most expensive components to replace, but with routine service, you can extend its lifespan and avoid major repairs.

At Wayside Garage, our ASE-certified technicians can inspect your vehicle and recommend the best course of action. If you're due for a transmission service or suspect a leak, give us a call at (831)-899-2425, or schedule an appointment online at www.waysidegarage.com.


P0430 Code Mean | Wayside Garage
August 13, 2025
The P0430 code signals a catalytic converter efficiency issue. Learn what it means, common symptoms, and how Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA can help diagnose and fix it.
Why Is My Coolant Level Low | Wayside Garage
August 4, 2025
Low coolant levels can lead to engine overheating and costly repairs. Learn the common causes and when to visit Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA for expert cooling system service.
By Wayside Garage August 2, 2025
Ensure safe driving with expert brake service & repair at Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA. Experience quality care. Schedule an online appointment now!
Wayside Garage team members smiling in the shop, holding a strut
By Stacey Diaz July 29, 2025
Looking for the best auto shop near you in Seaside, CA? Here’s how to find one you can trust—plus why Wayside Garage stands out from the rest.
Wayside Garage family-owned team offering auto repair and oil change services in Seaside, CA.
By Stacey Diaz July 22, 2025
Avoid engine damage and costly repairs with regular oil changes in Seaside, CA. Learn why Wayside Garage’s maintenance plan makes it easy to stay on schedule.
Wayside Garage technicians in Seaside, CA providing trusted, certified auto repair service.
By Stacey Diaz July 15, 2025
Looking for a mechanic near Seaside, CA? Discover how to spot a trustworthy auto shop with expert tips from Wayside Garage.
Golden retriever cooling off in front of a fan beside a parked SUV, illustrating the need for summer
By Stacey Diaz July 7, 2025
Stay cool this summer with professional car A/C repair in Seaside, CA. Wayside Garage offers expert diagnostics, recharge service, and free pick-up and delivery.
By Wayside Garage July 5, 2025
Discover top-notch transmission repair at Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA. Ensure smooth driving with our expert team. Schedule an online appointment now!
By Stacey Diaz July 3, 2025
How Do I Know If My Tires Are Safe to Drive On? Tips from Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA for National Tire Safety Week Tire safety is one of those things drivers don’t think about — until it’s too late. But as a local shop owner with over 38 years under the hood, I can tell you: the health of your tires has a major impact on how your car handles, brakes, and keeps you safe out on the road. That’s why we’re proud to support National Tire Safety Week 2025 , happening June 30 to July 4 — an annual effort from the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association to educate drivers on proper tire maintenance. And right here at Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA , we’re doing our part to help folks check in before they check out for summer road trips. 🚗 So, How Do You Know If Your Tires Are Safe? It really comes down to four key checks — easy to remember with the acronym P.A.R.T .: 🔹 P = Pressure Low tire pressure leads to poor fuel economy, sluggish handling, and faster wear. We recommend checking pressure monthly, especially before long drives. Always check when your tires are “cold” — that means before you hit the road, not after a grocery run. 🔹 A = Alignment If your car’s drifting left or right, or your steering feels off, your alignment may be out of whack. Misalignment causes uneven wear, hurts handling, and can shorten your tire life — not to mention your patience. 🔹 R = Rotation You’d be surprised how fast tires can wear unevenly. We rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles to make sure all four tires wear evenly. This extends tire life and keeps your vehicle handling the way it should. 🔹 T = Tread Tires need grip, especially in wet or winding road conditions. We recommend checking tread depth monthly. If your tire tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch or less — or if you see visible cracking or bulges — it’s time to replace them. 💡 Quick Tip: Stick a penny into your tread, Lincoln's head down. If you can see all of Honest Abe's noggin, your tread is too low. 🛠️ What We Offer at Wayside Garage, Seaside CA We’ve been serving the Seaside community for nearly four decades, and tire safety is something we don’t take lightly. Our tire services include: Tire pressure checks and adjustments Computerized wheel alignments Tire rotations and balancing Tread inspections and honest tire replacement recommendations Tire age checks — rubber breaks down over time, even if your tread looks good. Most tires should be replaced every 6 years, regardless of wear. Whether you're planning a road trip or just commuting to work, swing by Wayside Garage in Seaside for a tire check. No pressure (pun intended) — just experienced, straightforward service you can trust. ❓ FAQ: Tire Safety Questions We Hear All the Time Q: How do I know when my tires need to be replaced? A: If your tread is worn past 2/32", your tires are over six years old, or you notice bulges or cracks — it’s time to replace them. Q: How often should I rotate my tires? A: Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. We include this as part of routine maintenance at Wayside Garage. Q: Can alignment affect tire wear that quickly? A: Absolutely. One pothole or curb can knock alignment off. If your car pulls or your tires wear unevenly, it’s time for an alignment check. Q: What tire pressure should I use? A: Check your driver’s door sticker or owner’s manual — never use the number printed on the tire itself. 🏁 Drive Into Summer with Confidence This National Tire Safety Week , don’t just guess your tires are safe — know they are. Bring your vehicle to Wayside Garage in Seaside, California and let our experienced team give your tires a full safety check. You’ll leave knowing your pressure’s perfect, your alignment’s dialed in, and your tread is road-trip ready. Stop by or schedule your service today — we’re here to keep you rolling, safely.
Wayside Garage Joins Brakes for Breasts 2024 | Free Brake Pads for a Cause
March 24, 2025
Support breast cancer research with Wayside Garage! Get free brake pads in October and help fund the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine. Call now to book!
More Posts