We're leaking again... Could this be ATF?

[moonbaby4885]

So we're leaking [again]. So I recently had my '99 automatic 2.0 transmission serviced (they changed the fluid). They also fixed a coolant leak, and changed the water pump and belts. Well I've noticed a leak in my driveway about 4 weeks later. The fluid looks redish-brown in color, but doesn't have that sweet smell that the coolant has...it smells closer to oil, but I'm pretty sure its not.

Well I took her back to the shop and they found that the oil filter was knocked loose somehow (how does that happen?) and was causing oil to leak out. They put it back for me and said if I had any trouble to come back monday (I can't go until next week, though because my work schedule ). Well I still notice the redish stuff in my driveway and when I look under I can actually see it dripping from what looks like a knob with a hole of some sorts. Obviously I don't really know what I'm looking at down there, but I do know what the trans pan looks like and it doesn't seem to be coming from that. I've added some pics to show where the drip is(big red arrow) and the color of the fluid.

Could this be transmission fluid? Are there any other fluids this could be? What does brake fluid look like? I know its not power steering fluid because mine is a greenish color and it really doesn't look like oil. Any insight is much appreciated.

[moonbaby4885]

Perhaps I have put this in the wrong thread...

[Palmettoguy]

Yup, I would say its tranny fluid.

IRT to where its leaking from, no clue. I would however wipe the underside and sides spotless clean and then try to pinpoint it.

Is it a constant drip? Does it only drip when the tranny is warm or when it's cold and warm?

You may want to take it back to the shop that did the work and have them look at it.

Speaking of ATF flushes, did the shop replace the crush washer on the tranny drain plug? Be sure to ask them or double check it yourself.

The stealership flushed the ATF a month before we bought our vert and forgot to install it A few months later, it was leaking fluid from the plug

IRT Brake fluid, it can be clear, blue, or amber...or black if it's really dirty.

[Smileybug]

Not sure what color ATF is, but that would be my guess. I also doubt its leaking from that spot. Its probably leaking elsewhere and just pooling there before it drips. If you can get under the car, I'd take a really good look around the trans and see if you can't find any wet paths.