Noticed fresh oil spots/stains on my driveway today. Threw the car up and slid underneath to find something I am unfamiliar with but know can't be good. Take a look at the pictures and if anyone knows or can figure out what the mystery substance that is coating my rear passenger side under-carriage PLEASE let me know. I'd like to know if it's something that can be taken care of from home or needs to be taken to the STEALERship (dealership)Thank you all!!

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What color is the fluid? That should tell you where it's coming from.

 

I don't know if you can tell by the picture, but most areas are so greasy and ridden with dirt/debris that it's hard to tell. The fluid I found on my driveway is located directly underneath the spot in the pics. And that fluid is a dark-goldenish-brownish color. And I know motor oil is the same color. I changed my own oil 3 months ago but the driveway stains just appeared. Could it be engine oil? I dont see how.

 

You never really know where it's coming from until you isolate it by cleaning the area and then driving/running the car a little and keeping an eye out for the source. Another possibility is the tranny. There's a pilot bushing that tends to leak on these cars. You could drop the plastic pan and have a look. It's on the top right side of the tranny with an electrical hook up. As you drive, you know, the air flow will push the leaking fluid to the rear of the car. One thing I would do immediately is check the fluid level in the ABC reservoir. If it's low, top it off or have it towed to who ever is going to do the repair. If the ABC pump runs dry, you are looking at a serious repair bill. Good luck.

 

Looks like the right ABC shock is leaking.

 

Correct. If that's the ABC strut, the seal is leaking. This is a common problem on the W215s. Get ready to open your wallet wide unless you have a warranty..

 

If its the strut, contact Arnott and get a rebuild one with lifetime warranty!

David

 

i also agree, it looks like its coming from the right rear stut. or it can be a line that goes to the strut. also check your abc fluid level. keep it serviced, because you dont want to replace a pump as well.

 

I think its the strut as well. Many extended warranties do not cover struts/shocks or any wear and tear items. I had a front one replaced and it was around 1000 I think

 

Same thing happened to my car this mysterious fluid in the passenger rear wheel arch.