Red fluid on car battery, car won't start?

So I'm getting a little fed up with my car situation and I'm not really sure what to do. It's a 1989 Nissan Sentra. First, about 2 weeks ago, the crank shaft seal started leaking so I had to get that replaced--$80. Then last week, the starter went out...cost $325 to replace. I JUST picked my car up from 2 days of being at the shop on wednesday...hence I've only been driving it since the fix for about 2 days...now this morning I go out and it won't start again. What the hell. I popped the hood and noticed two things: the red cover type thing that connects to some hoses seemed either loose or disconnected, and there is a bunch of bright red fluid type stuff on the top of the battery coming from the two bolts on either side, I'm guessing.



So what the hell is wrong with my car this time?

How can I get it to start temporarily so that I can get it to a shop?

And how much do you think it'll cost?
Red fluid on car battery, car won't start?
that red stuff is probably transmission fluid. you might have a transmission line leaking. if there is a hole in the line then just cut the line and put a piece of 3/8 gas hose between it with 2 small screw clamps.
Red fluid on car battery, car won't start?
i have a battery terminal spray, its red. its to stop corrosion on the wires and terminals. maybe the mechanics sprayed it with that and you have yourself a different problem.



EDIT: try your spark plugs, install new ones. and if the wires are pretty old get new ones too, their cheap.

i suggest motorcraft, their good and strong.
If it's coming from the battery it's your battery, when you turn the key in the on position do your lights work. The only other red liquid I can think of is transmission fluid. If it's the battery change it, if it's not I don't know.
Katherin!!!! A crank seal replacement @ $80 and a starter replacement @ $325?!!! You need a new mechanic. AND you must buy the parts yourself; this will save you lots of money. Insist on it. Go on-line and find the best price for the part you need, then find the closest match in the local parts store. Use the phone, it's your most economical transportation.



The only red fluid in a car is the transmission fluid. You are probably seeing the anti-corrosion spray the shop put on the battery. If the battery is more than a year old and is one of the cheap variety, your battery may be worn out. Else a loose ground. good luck. you can e-mail me with questions if you like.