Water dripping from muffler

JDSALINGER

MEMBER
FORD RANGER

I have a 2003 Ford Ranger Supra 4.0L 4WD with 84K miles. There is a water type substance (not oil, leaves no residue nor does it burn) dripping very steadily from two holes on the underside of the muffler. I have checked all fluid levels, and all are normal (including coolant, but I had an oil change today so I dont know if it was low). About two months ago I had the rear main seal fixed, however I am told there is still some kind of leak (seaping) near the rear main seal still each time I have had the oil changed. There is no water on the dip stick for the oil (then again I dont know how I would really tell). I am very lost, any ideas on what it might be, is it safe to drive around? If it is safe is there any thing I should monitor so I do not do any more damage? Thank you-

2 Replies

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,937 POSTS

Hi there,

No need to worry, this is quite normal, water, H2o is a by product of the combustion cycle. When the engine is cold the water vapor condenses back into a liquid, the small hole is provided so that it can escape rather than sit and rust the exhaust, when the engine is at operating temp the water vaper is basically super heated steam and not visible.

Mark (mhpautos)