☰
GET A QUOTE

Q: Found oil in the water reservoir

asked by on June 07, 2016

I found transmission-type oil in the water reservoir. Does this mean a transmission problem or a radiator problem?

Recommended Services

Transmission fluid is leaking Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Or For Any Other Auto Repairs Get a Quote

Generally a pink milky fluid in the coolant indicates a leak between the transmission cooler and radiator. It is very possible the radiator has failed. Both the coolant system and transmission should be flushed to prevent cross contamination of fluids and the radiator replaced. Please note: never open or service the engine cooling system while the system is hot or pressurized or serious injury may occur. You may want to enlist the help of a mechanic who has the expertise and training to replace the radiator and service the necessary fluids. A certified mobile mechanic from YourMechanic can inspect the cause of the leak at your home or office.

fluids
Radiators
2005
L4-1.8L
leaks
Mercedes-Benz
C230
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Car leaking coolant.
Hello. Coolant leaks can come from so many different spots on your car. The most common that I have seen is the water pump, the radiator, or one of the heater hoses. A mechanic would either do a cooling system...
Read more
Ignition won't turn
Hi there. Most of the time this is caused by a key that is worn out or the lock cylinder being worn internally. I usually use some silicone lubricant on the key and in the lock cylinder to get the...
Read more
When accelerating, car backfires or turns off
Hello. There is a possible recall (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/what-to-do-if-your-car-is-recalled-by-jason-unrau) for the ignition control module on your vehicle. You will need to contact a GM dealer and see if your vehicle is on the recall for the recall 03v231000 (http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchResults?searchType=ID&targetCategory=R&searchCriteria.nhtsa_ids=03V231000) ignition control module...
Read more
Engine die when get hot
If your engine is shutting off when it gets hot it is possible that it could be overheating. Many vehicles have a feature built into the engine that will kill the engine if it reaches a certain temperature. For an...
Read more
The car won't start.
Hi there. Assuming that the battery is good, the connections are clean and tight, the replacement starter is good, the security light is turning off. There are several things that still can affect starter operation. If, the vehicle will start...
Read more
I changed the spark plugs and now my car is puttering, revving up on its own, and making a whistling noise
If these symptoms did not exist prior to the spark plug replacement (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/spark-plugs-replacement), it would appear as if something was disturbed, disconnected or broken during that maintenance. You want to make sure that all of the plugs were installed with...
Read more
Engine knocking at higher speeds
Hello. A knocking sound during heavy acceleration could potentially be a sign of a serious issue, depending on where it is coming from. A knock from the engine can occur if it runs low on oil, and could quickly lead...
Read more
My key will not easily come out of the ignition on my 2011 Mercedes C300
Hello. If the key will come out then you have an issue with the key lock sensor in the shifter assembly. It is not uncommon for the shifter assembly to break internally or to become warped and make poor contact,...
Read more

Related articles

What Causes an Exhaust Manifold to Crack or Leak?
Your car has two manifolds – an intake manifold and an exhaust manifold. Both serve essential purposes, but the one most likely to...
Read more
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Crankshaft Seal
If your car is reaching high mileage or is experiencing oil leaks, it may be time to replace the crankshaft seal.
Read more
Understanding the Mercedes-Benz Active Service System (ASSYST, ASSYST PLUS, ASSYST Fixed Intervals) Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Mercedes-Benz Active Service System indicates when and what service your car needs.
Read more

Browse other content

Estimates
Cars
Maintenance
Services