09/20/2026
🚗 USED CAR BUYING TIP #35 — CHECK THE ENGINE FOR LEAKS! 🔧💧
A clean-looking vehicle can still be hiding fluid leaks under the hood. Take a few minutes to inspect the engine bay before buying.
Look for:
🛢️ Engine oil leaks — Check around the valve cover, engine and underneath the vehicle.
🟢 Coolant leaks — Look for wet spots, staining or dried coolant residue.
⚙️ Transmission fluid — Watch for signs of fluid around the transmission and underneath.
🔧 Power-steering fluid — On vehicles with hydraulic power steering, check the reservoir, hoses and connections.
👃 Burning smells — Oil or other fluids leaking onto hot components can create noticeable odours.
🅿️ Fresh spots underneath — Check the ground after the vehicle has been parked.
💡 BONUS TIP: A freshly cleaned engine bay isn’t necessarily a red flag, but it can make leaks harder to spot. Check again after the test drive for fresh fluid or wet areas.
⚠️ A small leak today could become a much bigger repair tomorrow.
LOOK UNDER THE HOOD — AND UNDER THE CAR!
📍 Mallory Auto — Cobourg, Ontario
📞 Call or text Josh: 905-376-2080
BUY SMART. DRIVE CONFIDENT.
