What fluid is leaking?
There is an unidentified fluid leakage in the engine bay of my Volvo V50. Towing the caravan home on a hot day I thought there was a smell from under the bonnet. Looking into the engine bay from the front, there is a curved black steel pipe on the LH side near the alternator which drops downwards and connects to a flexi-pipe which disappears under the radiator.
On the pipe was a fine, transparent, oily and viscous fluid, which I thought might be ATF, but I could not see where it had escaped from.
I wiped it off and it was transparent and colourless like water. I left the engine to idle for ten minutes and then switched off for another 10 minutes.
I then drove home at 50 mph for the rest of the journey – I usually tow at 55 to 60 depending on the gradient, so never go mad. It seemed to be OK when I got home, and has not reappeared.
On the pipe was a fine, transparent, oily and viscous fluid, which I thought might be ATF, but I could not see where it had escaped from.
I wiped it off and it was transparent and colourless like water. I left the engine to idle for ten minutes and then switched off for another 10 minutes.
I then drove home at 50 mph for the rest of the journey – I usually tow at 55 to 60 depending on the gradient, so never go mad. It seemed to be OK when I got home, and has not reappeared.
Asked on 5 August 2015 by G Evans
![](http://images.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/pad/120x120/media/16477727/537450_458533677529584_1473549666_n.jpg)
This might be the pipe to or from the transmission fluid heat exchanger, which is usually situated either against the radiator or in the radiator. If a leak occurs and they "exchange fluids" then the coolant will wreck your automatic transmission. Definitely needs specialist attention 'just in case'.
Similar questions
![](http://images.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/pad/75x75/media/15217131/alan_polaroid.jpg)
I would like to know if I can use CVT NS2 fluids for my Nissan Primera 1999 model transmission fluid, I found it difficult to get CVT NS1 that is specified but I have gotten CVT NS2. Kindly advise if i...
![](http://images.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/pad/75x75/media/10703009/david-polaroid.jpg)
Must the engine be running while checking power steering oil level?
![](http://images.honestjohn.co.uk/imagecache/file/pad/75x75/media/16477727/537450_458533677529584_1473549666_n.jpg)
My 2008 Citroen C5 Tourer is leaking fluid. The leak is inline with the front wheels, but more on the driver's side. The fluid drips like water but has a oily texture to it with very little smell. Should...
Related models
![](/media/_v6/3444278/Volvo V50 (4).jpg?width=115&height=75&rmode=crop)
Classy-looking compact estate with very good ride comfort and tidy handling. A fine long-distance cruiser. The UK's most popular Volvo.