Managing Vehicle Fluid Leaks with SpillKit.com

Posted by SpillKit.com on 18th Oct 2021

Spill Kits and Vehicle Fluids

A motor vehicle is a complex piece of equipment that uses a variety of fluids for different functions; such as coolants, fuels, oils and battery acid, just to name a few. Whether you are working on, or around these machines, having the right spill kit gear close at hand for an unexpected spill or leak is crucial for a quick and efficient cleanup.

Given the assortment of liquids that could be expelled, knowing which kit to use for each is an important first step in managing the leak. Below you will find a list of the most common fluids found in a motor vehicle, with their recommended absorbent type.

Fluid: Color:  Recommended Spill Kit:
Antifreeze / Coolant Orange/ Red or Green         Universal
Battery Acid Clear Hazmat
Brake Fluid Yellow Universal or Oil Only
Diesel Exhaust Fluid Clear Universal
Fuel Yellow Universal or Oil Only
Gear Oil Golden Brown Universal or Oil Only
Power Steering Fluid Golden Brown Universal or Oil Only
Transmission Fluid Red Universal or Oil Only
Windshield Washer Fluid       Blue/Green/Orange   Universal


Luckily, Universal Spill Kits can be used for most fluids that may leak out of a vehicle, with the exception of battery acid. For this type of fluid, our Battery Acid Kit would be a better choice as it also offers the proper PPE, hazmat absorbents, as well as acid neutralizing agents for a safer cleanup. From a small trickle to a larger outflow, Spillkit.com offers an array of spill clean-up kits able to handle any mess, any time.

In addition, many of our spill kits are packaged in easily identifiable bright yellow bags, drums, or truck-mountable spill lockers. These spill stations can be stored inside cabin compartments, in the bed of a truck, or mounted to the exterior of your truck or trailer as your Truck Spill Kit.

Spill Kits and the Environment

Besides the type of liquid, the environment is another aspect to consider when experiencing a leak or spill. Should the spill or leak occur within a wet environment such as snow or rain, universal absorbents will be wasted, as they will absorb the H2O elements along with the vehicle fluids. If this case arises, our Oil Only Kit would be a better option. These adsorbents will repel the water and absorb the oil-based liquids, including an assortment of fluids (brake, transmission, power steering, windshield washing), motor oil, and diesel and gas fuel.

Of course, the added complication to these forms of spills or leaks is that the machine itself is mobile, thus an immediate repair may not be a viable option. Using a Leak Repair Kit to temporarily stop the flow, can help minimize the risk to the environment. If the vehicle is experiencing an extensive leak, such as a larger hole in the fuel tank, having the 100 Gallon capacity Quick Deploy Prowler Pool on hand to contain the leak, would be a quick and efficient way to avoid a possible disaster.

These prowler pools can be found in most of our Truck Spill Kits, and are easily installed beneath the leaking unit.

Unfortunately, spills and leaks are inevitable. Being prepared for any possible situation while in transit, or parked in a shop, could mean the difference between a seamless cleanup or a stain on paved surfaces, or worse; contamination of local soil and waterways and harming local wildlife.

Visit our Truck Spill Kits page for expertly designed kits ready for your mess.

Spillkit.com The Right Kit, Every Time.