Hi guys posted here before: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...luid-leak.html

but from those pictures it looks like the powersteering is leaking, but I think its a coolant leak? I looked at the coolant level and it is LOW! Also how fast does a mini engine heat up? It goes to about half way before I exit my work parking(takes about 30 secs to 1:30 minutes) I read on here that the temp gauge might not show more than halfway unless its REALLY heated. Is that true? Also this doesn't seem like powersteering leak since I drove it for about 2 weeks now and the reservoir is still at the same level. and I did not pay close enough attention to the coolant level but it is past the min mark.

so the question: How can I tell if its a PS leak or a coolant leak? I just can't tell from before because it was mixed in with dirt and grime. I tried to turn the steering wheel back and forth while parked to see if it started leaking, but from what I can tell no!

Any help appreciated!

 

You could have a mixture of both going on. What year is the car? The two fluids are definitely a different color and the PS fluid is more of an oil than a water.

 

its a 2003 Cooper. I originally thought the color was red, but with my horrible eyes it might not be(it was dark). but I just can't imagine the PS pump throwing out fluid all over like that, and still be at the same level? but I did try to see what color the PS fluid was int he reservoir, but when I put it on a napkin or something its kinda oily light green but more yellow like cooking oil haha? so that mixed with all the dirt and grime down there(which seems from seasons past caked on) might look darkish oil type. Just can't put my finger on it, nor find the leak. I guess i can go in deeper. but from what I understand the thermostat is known to leak, which would explain the "splash" everywhere in the proximity(trans bottom,oilpan bottom/side and on top and around the PS pump). any diagrams of the thermostat or where I should feel/look for more clues.

Thanks again.

 

my '03 MCS is leaking coolant (or so i think) and it is a deep blue/green color and its watery not oily. so i do know your fluid is not coolant however i cant give you any advice on what it would be. Not much but hope it helps

MMG