Hi,
Over the weekend I noticed a small puddle of dark brown-rust colored thick fluid underneath the car. It smelled like dirty socks and it dried off the next day. Again, yesterday I noticed this leak but it was just a few drops. I checked all the fluid levels(oil, trany, coolant..) and they seem to be fine. Any idea on what this might be. Any advise or suggestions would be appreciated.
Regards
smk_texas
92 190e 2.6 99k miles

One of the most important clues is exactly WHERE under the car is the fluid? Is it under the transmission, engine, which corner of the engine, etc?


Have a great day,

It appears to be underneath the torque converter.
Regards,
smk_texas

If it evaporates, it is water. If it leaves a slimy residue, it is coolant, so if not - I would suspect either rainwater or A/C condensate. If the former, there are several drains located at various spots in the car where water can collect, and any can become clogged with debris - later slowly draining out. Shop-vac debris where you can from these areas. If the latter, mold and dirt can collect in the condensate tray, and a 'dirty-socks' smell probably means you should clean out the tray.

Steve

Steve,
Thanks for your reply. It left a dry dark brown/rusty residue after the liquid dried off. I will check the condensation tray and other outlets this week.
Regards,
smk_texas

smk,

Since the residue is not oily, it almost has to be a/c condensate. This is normal. There is a condensation drain below the evaporator that allows any condensed water to drain out. There will be a larger puddle under the car on damp days.

Good luck,

Thanks Larry. I noticed the last three days there was no drainage at all.
Regards,
Shri