The 2022-2024 Vehicles With the Most Fluid Leaks
Owning a newer vehicle should mean peace of mind, but for many California drivers, that’s not the case. More and more 2022–2024 vehicle models are being plagued by common fluid leaks such as oil, coolant, transmission, brake, and power steering fluid leaks that lead to repeated repair attempts, downtime, and safety risks.
If your vehicle is leaking fluid and the dealership can’t (or won’t) fix it, you may have rights under California’s Lemon Law — but time is not on your side. Recent changes in the law shorten your window to take action.
Some of the Worst Offenders with Common Fluid Leaks
Despite being a nearly brand new vehicle, it is concerning that even after multiple repair attempts dealerships are still unable to make the correct repairs for common fluid leaks in some vehicles.
Here’s a list of some of the worst offenders when it comes to common fluid leaks in vehicles: engine oil leaks, transmission fluid leaks, coolant leaks, brake fluid leaks, and power steering fluid leaks.
ENGINE OIL LEAKS
• BMW (2022–2023 X3, X5, 3 Series, 5 Series): Leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil filter housing.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee & Wagoneer: Oil pan and rear main seal issues.
• Hyundai Tucson / Santa Fe (2.5L): Known oil leaks from timing covers and pans—especially with Gamma II engines.
TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAKS
• Ford F-150 (2022–2023): Fluid leaks from 10-speed transmission lines and connectors.
• Jeep Wrangler & Gladiator: Leaks from transmission pans and cooler lines; in some cases, present a fire risk.
COOLANT LEAKS
• Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra (2.7L Turbo): Coolant leaks from the cylinder head and water pump.
• Hyundai Santa Cruz / Sonata / Tucson: Radiator hose leaks and water pump failures—often cause overheating.
BRAKE FLUID LEAKS
• Nissan Pathfinder (2022–2023): Faulty ABS actuator and master cylinder leaks.
• Mazda CX-5: Brake line and caliper seal leaks that reduce stopping power.
POWER STEERING FLUID LEAKS
• Toyota Tacoma & 4Runner (2022): Steering rack leaks, especially in colder climates.
Why Common Fluid Leaks Matter
These common fluid leaks leaks aren’t just messy — they’re potentially dangerous and legally significant:
Even if the dealership is trying to repair it, multiple repair attempts for the same issue under warranty may qualify your vehicle as a lemon under California law.
PRO TIP: Document Everything
Before and after each dealership visit, take photos and videos of the leak, dashboard warnings, and any signs of damage (e.g., fluid stains, smoking engine bay).
SAVE ALL:
- Repair orders
- Service advisor notes
- Warranty paperwork
Your documentation will be vital in proving a claim. Take photos of the fluid drops on the garage floor. Dab fluid with a white paper towel to determine the color of the fluid. This can help determine the type of fluid that is leaking.
Don’t let common fluid leaks soak your wallet!
If your 2022 or newer vehicle is leaking fluid and repairs haven’t resolved the issue, you may be entitled to a refund or replacement under California Lemon Law — and I can help.
I’m Jeffrey Le Pere, a California lemon law attorney focused on representing consumers against manufacturers and dealerships. Contact me today to discuss your potential claim.
California recently passed AB 1755, a law that shortens the deadline for filing a Lemon Law claim. Consumers must now FILE WITHIN ONE YEAR OF THE WARRANTY’S EXPIRATION DATE, making timing critical. Delaying could cost you your rights.
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