I have found a brown fluid leaking from the refrigerator side of my Kenmore "side by side" refrigerator/freezer. Any idea what this is, how to fix it myself? I am not sure of the model but it's probably between 5-10 years old, black in color. I'm betting I can get the model number from inside if necessary...

Take out the rotten potatoes!

I don't think there is dark fluid in a fridge

wth

Does it smell? My washing machine is doing this and the leak smells as if it is a combination of grease and water.

If your refrigerator is leaking an oily or oil-colored liquid and is not freezing or cooling properly, it’s a good chance that the substance is refrigerator oil. The oil is normally clear and odorless, but when the seal to the system is broken, oxygen can dirty the oil during the compressor burn. The dirty oil is also an indication of a damaged compressor as well.

[This message has been edited by helgs (edited 4/19/2010 1:04p).]

What is the viscosity of this fluid? As your fridge ages the insulation can start breaking down and you could be getting condensation buildup in places that were never designed to see moisture. It could be rusty water.

Could also be water from the condensation drain pan under the compressor. That water would typically be pretty dirty. Did it feel like water or more oily?

Eh, I never felt it. It didn't appear to be too thick, however dried dark like oil. I haven't seen any since that night....

The motor is probably packed in oil or grease and could be leaking.

if/when you see it again, take a picture of it and put it up. Might help someone figure it out.