How to Troubleshoot an Oil Leak in a 1995 Nissan Altima
- 1). Check for brown or black oil leaking on the ground or on the side of the engine. This is engine oil. It lubricates critical engine components. A leak means that an engine seal has failed and needs to be replaced.
- 2). Check for red oil. Red oil is automatic transmission fluid. On your 1995 Altima, it most likely means that you have a rear main seal on the transmission that has failed. However, any seal on the transmission is possible. Transmission leaks need to be fixed immediately. A transmission can fail catastrophically in 20 minutes of driving if there is insufficient oil in the transmission.
- 3). Check for amber or brown oil leaking from your transmission. This is transmission gear oil found only on the manual version of the Nissan Altima.
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