My mechanic told me my read axle seal is leaking and I should replace it. It would cost around $600. I thought that sounded high. I took it elsewhere for an estimate. They said it wasn't leaking but it was seeping. And it would cost around $375 to replace. I have been watching for drops of oil on my driveway and have not seen any. Can I get by with not replacing the seal, unless of course it does start to leak oil? For example, can I have the mechanic simply add gear oil every six months? At what point am I either doing damage to the car or putting my safety at risk? Also, if I do decide to have it replaced, what is a reasonable price for that job? Thank you.
rear axle seal at differential is "seeping" (2007RAV4, V6, AWD)
Vee
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My mechanic told me my read axle seal is leaking and I should replace it. It would cost around $600. I thought that sounded high. I took it elsewhere for an estimate. They said it wasn't leaking but it was seeping. And it would cost around $375 to replace. I have been watching for drops of oil on my driveway and have not seen any. Can I get by with not replacing the seal, unless of course it does start to leak oil? For example, can I have the mechanic simply add gear oil every six months? At what point am I either doing damage to the car or putting my safety at risk? Also, if I do decide to have it replaced, what is a reasonable price for that job? Thank you.
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69 Posts
Most axle seals are $10-$20 and to replace usually involves removing rear tire, brake assembly, and axle, usually you drain the axle fluid and put fresh stuff in as well. The labor involved is usually few hours depending on circumstances. A leaking seal is usually found because oil is seen on the inside of your rim, usually it contaminates the rear brake shoes as well. Sometimes the oil gets pushed past the seal from heat/pressure due to a plugged breather at the top of the diff somewhere, sometimes it is just normal wear or maybe the vehicle is driven in water and sand which might get in there and damage it.
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373 Posts
Doesn't look bad at all. I can barely see it.
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Sent from my ONEPLUS A6000 using Tapatalk
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373 Posts
Has it rained In a while? If that's how it looks and no rain has touched it for a few days, I'd say the leak is minor. Doesn't look to be dripping or slinging all over.
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Sent from my ONEPLUS A6000 using Tapatalk
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69 Posts
I assumed it was at the wheel end of the axle lol, but anyhow that is nothing to worry about, if you start seeing a puddle or like a few drips when you leave the vehicle over night then at that point I would do something about it. I am sure there are many how to vids on youtube if you have the tools and willingness to give it a go.
No, it has not rained at all. It is disturbing that my mechanic made it sound like something I should really deal with soon. He even suggested that I replace both seals, even though the left one is not even seeping. Is he trying to upsell me? I drove this vehicle 400 miles the other day and did not notice any issues with how it operates. Thanks. These forums are so great.
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373 Posts
I'd say he's definitely trying to upsell. I'd just keep an eye on it. If you see any drops on the ground then it would be time to change.
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