What should I do if I have a rear differential leak?
Just adjusting the backlash or replacing your oil seal should be quick and fairly affordable. By contrast, repairing the leak will sometimes require a rear differential rebuild or other massive repairs. Although every situation is different, most of the common rear differential repairs will fall into one of several categories.
How much does it cost to repair a rear differential?
The “correct” repair would be to have the differential overhauled, which would involve removal from the vehicle, opening the differential, installing new wear-components like bearings and thrust washers, then reassembling with new gaskets and seals. Parts cost would be in the $100-$300 range, with labor in the 4-8 hour range.
What happens when your rear differential goes bad?
If your rear differential has gone bad, you may notice some of the following symptoms: A rumbling or whirring at speeds over 20 MPH that change when turning A clunking noise when you first begin to move your car You also want to keep a lookout for a leak, which typically happens at the axle seals or pinion seal.
Can a pinion seal cause a differential leak?
Another differential leak could be at the pinion seal. There is a yoke at the front side of the differential, and the surrounding seal can wear out over time. In order to replace the seal, you have to dislodge the yoke and pry out the seal. After that, place a new seal and then attach the yoke to its components.
How much does it cost to repair a rear differential leak?
On average, differential repair can range anywhere from $500 to as much as $2,000. The costs will depend on the mechanic, the location (rear and/or front), the significance of the repair, parts being used if the entire differential has to be replaced, where you live and your car’s make and model.
How do you fix a rear differential leak?
Fixing the rear differential oil leak – resealing with RTV silicone Loosen bolts Prize open case Drain oil Scrape off old gasket sealant with a plastic scraper Clean cover plate Apply sealant (gasket maker or RTV silicone) Place cover back on and hand tighten Fully tighten and leave for 24 hours before filling with oil
What would cause a rear differential to leak?
In most case, age, wear and tear, or excess exposure to harsh weather and elements causes the differential gasket to break or leak. However, in some very rare cases, excessive pressure inside the rear end housing can also lead to pushing the gasket out which can also create a leak.
What does a leak in the rear differential mean?
Usually, if you have a leak at the rear of your vehicle and it’s rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, it means your differential is leaking. Differential oil usually has a distinctive smell. So if you see oil from a leak and it has a distinctive odor, it could be a differential fluid leak.