Mine weeps a little more then that. I do not see G80 anywhere on sticker. The differential is the housing that contains the axle's gear drive and connects to a drive shaft in order to provide power to the drive axle. I indicated to them to just top off my levels and that I’d bring to the dealership after my trip. Though you may be familiar with leaks around your engine, which could include oil, transmission fluid, or coolant, you may not be as familiar with leaks from around your axles. This is on the rear differential. Best workaround is re-sealing the cover with RTV, and also adding the Van Compass diff plate which acts as a stiffener. Got in contact with tech support and got approval to replace the rear differential. The purpose of the axle seal is to keep transmission fluid from leaking. Whether your vehicle has an all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive, a leaking differential is typically to blame for any leaks at the rear. I have about 500 miles on it so far and not the first fell of chatter. I suppose the fact that it was still dripping means it's at least not quite dry. Dealer states that the coupling needs to be replaced for a price of 2000. May 8, 2024 · There is significant risk associated with ignoring a differential leak. Jan 22, 2015 · The T70 is for the drain. Jan 8, 2023 · Differential Fluid Leaks: What are They? Differential fluid looks similar to engine oil. If you suspect there is water in the differential, first drain any fluid from the differential. have run many other Posi units in the past with the same results. Depending on how your vehicle is built, it may have a differential at the rear, at the front and rear, or it may be equipped with a transaxle in the front that includes 2. Whether the vehicle is a rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, finding leaked fluid in the rear of it indicates a differential leak. May 21, 2024 · Unlike some other fluids in the car, differential oil isn't filtered. Oct 6, 2019 · Good Afternoon. In a perfect world it would be completely dry. It's a loose fitting cap with a spring inside that pushes down on a rubber gasket. Drain the rear differential. After 15,000 miles the rear was really black. Differential fluid keeps the gears in your differential lubricated and helps to cool them down. So decided to do it again now at 33k. To identify the source of the leak, you’ll need to keep a watch on it. They did find the hose part number and have that ordered, so just the connector. Dealer installed new seals in Dec. You should be able to see the fluid separate from water in a separate container if it is contaminated. Apr 20, 2008 · I was performing some maintenance on my Pilot when I discovered that oil is starting to leak from the rear differential. Anyone have thoughts on just adding some stop leak like Blue Devil? The fluid is fairly new. Dirty Differential Fluid: Another common cause of a rear differential pinion seal leak is dirty differential fluid. Jan 24, 2022 · Steps to inspect and fix a differential with a water leak. Apr 1, 2024 · And as it is the rear diff, many times it catches all the blow back leaks ahead of it on the truck, and will appear as a rear diff leak. The emergency brake line connects to a spring loaded level attached by a cotter pin on a post. In the case of my subject vehicle Feb 22, 2016 · Step 2 – Remove brake lines. So, next time I took it back there, he looked and there was some fluid again - not much, but definitely some sort of leak. Some people refer to this differential as the rear diff or simply the rear end. the mechanic told me that the fluid level was still high, even let me take a look at the fluid color (looked charcoal black to me). Anyway, I have no idea when the old fluid was last changed (sometime before I bought the vehicle) but it looked relatively clean, and there wasn't that much residue and metal on How to fix the breather vent on the rear differential on most cars, this is one a Rav4 as an example, but very common on these models. Dec 17, 2017 · 2017+ Super Duty - Rear differential leaking - Hey everyone, I'm new to this forum but have been reading these posts for quite some time. Brake fluid is water soluble so if you wipe it up with a cloth it will rinse out with just water also check the brake fluid level in the reservoir. My question is how to proceed for the short and long run. A major issue that may require costly repairs is a rear differential leak. Fluid level was checked and is OK. Jan 7, 2016 · The burning smell might also be a result of an overheating gearbox from poor lubrication. Oct 29, 2012 · 2009 - 2014 Ford F150 - Rear Differential Leaking - Has anyone had problems with a leaking rear differential? I have a 2010 with the 3. 00. They said this is a common problem for 2017 model year CRV'S. 1993 K1500 rpo code in glove box is GT4. I have recently discovered fluid (diff oil) leaking out of the vent tube that comes out of the rear axle. So here we go. The front differential usually shares a housing with the transaxle on a front- or all-wheel-drive vehicle, so it needs to be changed more often than the rear. Take a look as we repair this common issue so you can do it yourself - or decide you wan Jan 7, 2016 · If the differential gasket fails, the fluid inside of the differential housing may leak out and leave puddles or drips of gear oil on the floor, underneath the vehicle. For Axle Seal Repair: Specialized tools you'll need: Sep 6, 2023 · Final Verdict; Differential Leak. 55 open rear differential. My last 3 trucks have been F150 Lariats and 200k miles before selling, but never a diff leak on them. 4. Additionally, damage to the differential gasket, pinion seals, and axle side seals can also cause differential fluid leakage. Looks the the pinion seal. If you have a leak at the back of your car, whether it’s rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, it’s usually due to a leaking differential. Learn how to identify and fix a rear differential leak, which can damage the differential gears and affect the car's performance. Oct 30, 2023 · Just how much oil is leaking and where it’s dripping out under the car will clue you in on the mechanical fault. The appropriate schedule for your vehicle can be found in the owner’s manual. The fluid looks like motor oil but has a distinct smell. This is definitely where the fluid is coming from. Remove the differential fluid filler bolt and washer and carefully feel inside the bolt hole with your finger. Carefully pour out the oil into a bigger container. I have had the rear differential fluid changed in the past. This can be dangerous where the brakes are mounted next to the differential casing. Jan 7, 2023 · With the rear differential fluid, you might only need to change it every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. It’s dripping from where the two pieces connect on the bottom but not enough to form a pool on the ground. After draining front and rear, I filled the rear differential first. Differential gear oil helps to lubricate the gears and bearings inside the differential and keeps them cool by dissipating heat. Remove and discard the rear differential vent cap from the rear drive unit cover. :frown2: Unfortunately, the axle seal does not last the lifespan of the car. ” I hope this isn’t a common problem. I have just crossed 10,000 miles and noticed my rear axle leaking. Next, lift and support the front and rear of the vehicle. My question- is there a seal between the coupling and the differential? And has anyone had this repaired? Aug 19, 2017 · I planning on changing diff fluid and finding conflicting info as to if I need ls additive or not. 6. On the rear the 10mm hex head is needed. 3. It uses a rubber lip-type seal to keep gear lube from slipping past the pinion flange during normal operation. It's important to keep the fluids in your differential fresh, especially if you do a lot of towing or off-road driving. When I get around to servicing the rear diff oil I may get energetic and pull the cover off and try to reseal it. A puddle of differential oil leak is similar to that of an engine oil leak. Leave it and top off as needed. please see the attached images and tell me what do you think. Jan 6, 2007 · what did your stealership say? my stealership told me yesterday that it was the main gasket that caused the rear diff fluid sippage, and he tightened the square hole on the rear diff. Find out the possible causes of differential leaks, such as damaged gasket, seal or pinion seal, and the steps to repair them. The fluid level should be up to the edge of the bolt hole. Nov 10, 2021 · Figure 1 This photo shows a leaking rear differential, covered in oil (green arrow). Oil Leaking Toward the Back of the Engine Bay. When pressure builds up inside, the air is supposed to push up on that rubber gasket to release the pressure. I'm barely at 22k mi. Jun 26, 2020 · The diff vent is on the top of the diff at the rear right corner and sticks straight up. Mar 4, 2022 · The rear underside does not appear to ‘splattered’ with oil, so am I right to assume this leak is pretty minimal at the moment? A minor concern is that if they leave it too long before agreeing to finally attend to it, the diff will run low on oil, with presumably catastrophic results. Working at rear differential: using a 14mm Allen bit, remove the oil fill plug (yellow arrow). The diff flexes under high torque-loads. Sep 20, 2010 · Yea, take a look at where the fluid is leaking out. Looks like it is coming from the pinion seal and also between the coupling and the differential. It allows the drive wheels to turn at different speeds, as they must when turning a corner. Sep 30, 2013 · So one or two weeks ago I changed out my rear diff fluid. Aug 29, 2018 · The rear differential in my truck (9. Feb 25, 2020 · I originally did the diff fluid sometime after I got it used w/17k on it in 2014. It is apparently from the top in the middle where the diff connected to the frame. You’ll have to keep your eyes on the leak to figure out where it came from. Just to the left of the pumpkin housing, you can see where fluid has seeped out of the differential housing over time and has that wet, stained look that is Mar 23, 2017 · I have a 2011 Ranger XLT 4X4, auto, 4. I attached the other end of the hose to the bottle of fluid. Mar 9, 2010 · fluid leak rear axle rear differential Jump to Latest 10K views 6 replies 4 participants last post by bdlatulippe Aug 23, 2016 Jan 13, 2024 · 2015 - 2020 Ford F150 - Rear differential leak - Hey guys, I just bought my 2020 Lariat last week. Where could it be leaking and how many seals are utilized? 2004 Ford Explorer 4. Mar 12, 2018 · The fourth-generation F-body is equipped with GM's 7. This is a shop looking to take your money. SA told me it was a $5K job inclusive of parts/labor/taxes. So I'm not sure where to start to troubleshoot and replace. Whether you have a transmission axle seal leak or a rear differential axle seal leak, we’ll explain the possible causes, outline the most prevalent symptoms, and walk you through how to track and fix the oil leak. At minimum you need to raise the rear of the car, lifting all 4 corners is best for this repair. of last year. Mar 23, 2020 · Bar’s Leaks Axle & Differential Gear Repair is a treatment additive for use with automotive, heavy duty, agricultural, marine and industrial gear oils. Please check out my sho Jun 27, 2020 · That's not likely a leak in the differential, although there is a vent at the top, and if somehow it's overfilled (hard to do) or the fluid is foaming, I guess it could leak out the vent. I don't see that there's a way short of "drain and measure" to see how much fluid is in there. Took it in for a routine oild change, and was told I have a rear differential fluid leak - leaking fluid is clearly visible and there are a few stains in my garage. Some of the common symptoms of a bad differential include abnormal noises from the drive axle, fluid leaks, and differential fluid contaminated with metal. How quickly a rear differential leak manifests may also depend on driving circumstances. Jan 13, 2018 · I have a 2016 ford explorer 4WD with 50K miles and upon the last maintenance, the technician noticed a minimal oil leak from the rear differential on the right side. This has just started recently as I know this was not happening in the past, beside, looking at the area in the garage, where I park the car, there is only a small trace of oil on the floor, where the differential is located. Differential fluid resembles motor oil in appearance. If it's around the seal (where the differential cover meets the differential) then it's literally put down some newspaper and a bucket underneath. They said that the plug turns freely and the threading seems to be gone. I ended up using the hose from that pump so that I could put the fluid in. This is because they are both a type of gear oil. I just developed a similar problem with my 2013 Outback. 2. If only a light residue is found around the cap, this is normal. Actually I ended up re-sealing the differential because I broke the seal when installing a Shrock diff cover. I had an old pump that is now in the garbage can because all it did was leak all over the place. As for differential fluid you should also see it leaking out of the gear box. I am not sure where to start. It might help to take a sample of the fluid. When it fails, you usually get a large volume of oil expelled when the engine is running. Appreciate any suggestions, insight, or assistance. You will also need a drain pan to collect the leaking oil, in case you open up the system. Then, told me to drive it for a while, to see if my noise went away. Jan 28, 2010 · 01 rear differential leak OK, Gasket changed and gear lube replaced. Jan 26, 2024 · A rear differential leak refers to differential fluid leaking from the rear differential housing of a vehicle. I used a Felpro gasket instead of RTV and I’ve noticed a puddle underneath the diff and even noticed a dripping bead of diff fluid. I drive around town going normal speeds and everything looks good, no leaks. If it is not, slowly add Its a simple process, but so many people do it wrong! In my experience, This is THE BEST way to seal up your leaky differential. Thanks Use Differential Side Bearing Replacer to install the new differential bearings on the differential case. My rear Differential leaks and will not hold proper fluid amount. Remove the vent from the rear cover. Jul 21, 2021 · A vehicle’s differential is a complex assembly that transfers and manipulates engine torque being sent to the drive wheels. Mar 31, 2013 · That's it, tiny amount of oil looks huge. When a dealer tells you they need 2 hours per axle to change the fluid, get your keys and leave. The dealer tells me that the rear differential fluid tank is leaking, at the plug where they remove the fluid. If you find fluid is seeping from a differential or axle seal, you might only have to replace the seal. Differential fluid/gear oil contained within a differential is used to cool and lubricate the gear sets contained therein. A snow storm is coming The most common cause of a rear differential pinion seal leak is wear and tear. The rear differential leak is also one of the most common problems of the 2005-2014 S197 Ford Mustang face after 100,000 miles. Anyone have experienced this? What is the cause and how do I fix it? Jan 12, 2012 · First, he cleaned the area, and we replaced the fluid with a special differential fluid from BMW - expensive stuff. 5. 0 engine. Some rear-wheel-drive cars with independent rear suspension may leak oil from the drive-shaft oil seals. I saw a small amount on the ground at my work and apartment. fluid change. Correction Verify that the fluid leak is rear axle fluid, not transmission fluid. Leaking Differential Fluid: Another common symptom of a bad differential is leaking fluid. I am attaching pictures they are not perfect but any advice will be appreciated. Dec 30, 2015 · An axle seal is the part of the vehicle that connects the axle to the rear differential, or the transmission. ” The pinion could be leaking and due to driving, the oil can run down the underside of the center section and make it appear that its the diff cover that is leaking. They’ll eventually dry up or become bristle and cause oil leaks. If it doesn't, then fill it. You want the rear differential to be level when checking the oil level. Only got A QUART out of the front differential (cause that was all their was), but the fluid in the front didn't look too bad. The cover may be stuck, so simply just pry it off with a screw driver. Aug 16, 2018 · Hi- just was told by the dealer that my differential is leaking (wet). Two visits to my dealer, tube has been cleaned out and still leaking. Not an issue, but keep an eye on it. But either one probably is better than stock. Decided to replace the seals. When looking for a leak, follow the oil to the clean spot (yellow arrow). (1) Position the differential case assembly, including shims, in the axle housing. 41,000 miles on the vehicle. MB didn't publish a recommended service interval for the R170's differential oil in the owner's manual. Jun 21, 2021 · So I replaced those. Oct 9, 2022 · The differential seal may become damaged and begin to leak. 73 rear gears, Eaton TruTrac Diff, TA Performance rear end girdle, Racecraft suspension system, UCA, LCA May 4, 2022 · Anyway - the multipoint inspection indicated that I have a minor leak on my front differential and that my rear differential was also low. Identify where your differential is leaking and how many seals you need to replace. . The rear diff on E53 X5 models can leak from a few places, the axle seals, the input flange seal and the rear cover. Looks like two pieces, but they said the connector is one piece. Fluid didn't look too bad, but it had a disturbing amount of crud stuck to the magnetic tips on the fill & drain plugs, like a thick paste. To stop leaks from occurring in the first place, there are a few things you may do. There is no oil on the floor of my parking space Apr 26, 2021 · In the pictures below, the part they are looking for is the metal piece with arrows to it. It's certainly concerning, as it's bad enough it is wet underneath, a M⚙t⚙rsF⚙rum M⚙⚙F⚙ Aug 15, 2011 · Subaru Tribeca 06 - 194,000k (yikes!). Here is where the info starts getting a little contradicting. If your differential leaks fluid, it can cause the gears to overheat and wear out prematurely. (I may be wrong) It started flinging fluid all over Jan 22, 2018 · Posting a pic from under the diff (belly) and the pinion may help some “internet troubleshooting. 25”) is leaking ever since I opened it to change my rear wheel bearings and seals. Its sounds silly but its like an accomplishment for me. Usually leaks large enough to leave traces on the ground will also have noticeable accumulation of oil on the underside of the differential that should be clearly visible as So rear differential on my '16 X5M was noted to have a leak by my indy shop during oil change. Typically, the main cause of rear differential fluid leakage is damaged seals. . Use "the right stuff" and Apr 4, 2018 · I assume, when they replaced the rear diff fluid, they finger tightened the bottom plug and forgot to torque it. C5 Corvettes are known for leaking driver side Differential Covers. This is a common issue that many car owners experience at some point. This usually indicates the source of the leak. Any suggestions will help greatly. It is linked to the transmission with a driveshaft. 2) Open the fill plug and see if fluid runs out. Tune up, lube, oil and filter. Get a can of rear differential fluid, in case you have to replace it, along with an oil filling pump. What should you do if such a problem occurs? Feb 10, 2020 · Those of you with correct-wheel-drive (or 4WD/AWD!) may notice some odd puddles on the driveway at the rear of your vehicle, or some oily grunge in its under I have a very minor leak at the rear diff seal. I've been leaking fluid for weeks. It did. Rear Differential Fluid Check the fluid level with the rear differential at normal operating temperature and the vehicle sitting on level ground. Install a new rear differential vent A rear axle seal is a seal located between the rear axle and the differential of a vehicle. Apr 7, 2021 · Apparently pretty common, especially with the EcoBoost. Sep 20, 2020 · Usually a diff failure occurs on the ATS due to the rear axle seals leaking enough that fluid gets low enough to cause damage. 5-inch 10-bolt rear axle. Reinstall the vent and rear differential assembly back into the Oct 16, 2019 · “Found both rear axle seals leaking bad, fluid was very low in rear differential and gray color. The Conclusion. Several things can cause low differential fluid, but the most Assess What is Leaking: 1. Mar 29, 2021 · but just saw the leak from the diff. I would not mess with a minor leak at the pinion seal, only if oil is leaking out an axle seal onto your brakes. Rear-wheel drive vehicles use an independent differential located between the two rear wheels. I took it to a shop on the road and they checked the rear differential fluid and sure enough it Nov 1, 2023 · Changing the rear differential fluid at 45 years old was a good move. Once the bottle was upside down I punctured a hole in there so it would drain. Jul 14, 2015 · Fast forward to today I have a intermittent dripping leak of diff fluid from the rear differential cover. Jan 12, 2024 · Figure 1 First, drive vehicle for about 2-3 minutes to warm the differential oil. The rear diff on E60 models can leak from a few places: the axle seals, the input flange seal and the rear cover. So if you see oil from a leak and it has a distinctive odor, it could be a differential fluid leak. 0 Regular Fuel. Oct 14, 2017 · You've come face to face with a scam. I know its an easy fluid change for most of you guys, but I would like to share my steps and pics with everyone. Nov 12, 2017 · Both axle housings have drain plugs, just like a crankcase. Filled with fluid and teat drove and the ring and pinion gear had a whine on deacceleration (sic). 400 miles later and about a month later rear end is leaking again but worse this time. Nov 21, 2020 · EZGO rear differential leaking oil problem: To fix an EZGO rear differential oil leak problem follow these simple steps: Wrench apart the oil pan at the bottom of the cart. If your car is leaking fluid from the rear differential, you’re not alone. There is nothing that, "says" the rear diff needs a fluid top off. Overall, it's a good idea to change the fluids in your vehicle regularly, even if it's still new. As I was under I noticed that the Driver side Axel might have been the reason for the leak, maybe not, but if it is, what is the procedure for replacing the seal on the axel shaft at the differential. As metal parts wear, particles circulate through the oil. May 26, 2007 · Check to see if the rear differential has been over-filled with oil. Sep 15, 2005 · Fluid Leak at Rear Axle (Replace Left Differential Side Cover 0-Ring and Left Axle Shaft Seal, Add Sealant to Side Cover Flange) Models: 1997-2004 Chevrolet Corvette Condition Some customers may comment on fluid leaking from the rear axle. 2014 Latitude 4wd Jan 25, 2011 · I have a 2008 Rav that started leaking from the rear axle seals with only approx. This article does not apply. You won’t need to replace the brake parts if no fluid leaked onto parts like the emergency brake shoes and they’re in Feb 14, 2010 · Forged bottom end, Ported heads, Saleen super charger, 2. Apr 7, 2021 · So, I take my car in to be serviced at 101k miles. Differential oil usually has a distinctive smell. Sep 25, 2017 · SERVICE PROCEDURE 1. Make sure you look forward first, to be sure this IS the trouble spot, before diving in, but either way would not hurt to refresh the rear diff lube and seal. Turn the differential over and drain the vent chamber. Inspect the rear drive unit for oil leaking from the rear differential vent cap located on the rear cover. Trying to determine where my rear diff is leaking. Also, it’s common for the diff to start leaking from the cover if the Jul 30, 2017 · Putting the diff fluid in is a chore. Anyone with rear differential issues or leaks? Fortunately, I'm still under warranty so I brought it to the dealer and they replaced the rear differential. 8 blower pulley/15psi, Dual stage water to air intercooler, AFCO heat exchanger, battery relocated, Twin GT500 fuel pumps, T-56 trans, Aluminum flywheel, Aluminum driveshaft, 3. Theses are the things I used for the Jan 5, 2021 · A differential is a component found in the drivetrain of SUVs and heavy-duty vehicles. 2 weeks go by and I take the CTS on the freeway again going over 100mph again and when I stop for gas I noticed the bumper has oil all over it again. That said That's actually a minuscule amount of oil. Aug 8, 2008 · I decided to do my first rear diff. Put a gasket sealant on the pan and change it. However, Subaru has used oil-filled bushing in different places over the years, including the differential mounting bushings in the 4th gen. THanks to everyone who helped me with my first oil and transfluid change. Sure sign of a crook. In reality it is common for many makes and models. The emergency brake lines need to be removed, as well as the regular brake lines. Nov 18, 2022 · Difference Between Leaking and Seeping Fluid from a Rear Axle or Differential Seal No Signs of Excessive Fluid Leaking. Jun 17, 2023 · Differential fluid running down from the Differential along the axle or brake fluid. 1) A puddle under your rear. Install the differential case. And where the plug is at the rear side there’s what I think is grease buildup. What is the differential fluid service (rear axle oil service) all about? The differential is a special gear box located between the drive wheels of your vehicle. The rear axle seal is responsible for sealing the differential gear oil inside the differential housing. Don’t begin this car repair job, until you are equipped with the requisite tools. Remove the rear differential from the vehicle. Consensus on the forum is that the leaky seals are related to the diff vent not working properly (pressure builds up and doesn't vent, pushes fluid past the seals). Oil leaking from the back of the engine bay is usually a rear main oil seal. Differential oil frequently smells strong. Differential gear Jan 20, 2024 · Figure 1 Rear Differential: This photo shows a leaking rear differential. OP, where is the housing leaking? It is NOT common for JKs to leak at the differential. If the pinion seal is what's leaking take it to a reputable shop for replacement. a. Differential/gear Oct 13, 2022 · Hey all! Decided to finally join the forum. It’s at 57,500 miles and when I pulled into the garage today I noticed the diff fluid leak. Designed to mix with all synthetic and conventional petroleum GL-4, GL-5, MT-1 gear oil / lube grades including 75W-90, 80W-90, 75W-140, 85W-140 and all others. This forum has been a huge help. The only way to be sure that it is your differential leaking is by relating it to the rear of the car, exactly beneath your diff. Droplet appear to be forming on the bottom of the pumpkin. Dec 14, 2008 · This is caused by a leaking rear axle seal you will need to pull the left rear axle out and change the seal and check for a worn axle bearing, this requires the removal of the differential cover, pin and center block or posi spring and clutch pack (if so equipped) and spider gears and then the "C" clip that retains the axle into the gear carrier, u will need a tube of silicone to reseal the Aug 10, 2011 · My truck (2001 Dakota 4x4) is leaking fluid out the rear diff, at the point the drive shaft goes in. Any help is Feb 27, 2023 · In fact, the term transaxle can be used interchangeably in these vehicles to describe the differential or transmission. my reading indicates that the differential leak is more likely an oil filled bushing leak. Remove Fluid from the Differential. Apr 13, 2016 · 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. Mar 10, 2009 · Some Synthetic rear end fluids will not need additive, I run Amsoil and the new Posi is doing well with the straight sythetic gear oil. Slowly remove the surrounding bolts. So even if the oil itself hasn't lost lubricity, it should be changed to clean out shavings and debris. There are two ways to check if the rear diff needs fluid. If not, proceed to Step 2. Depending on the size of the leak, it may be okay to drive with a leaking axle seal, but not for very long. Oil leaking on to the brakes can impair their efficiency seriously. Having the differential oil replaced may solve the problem, otherwise, a gasket or seal replacement may be necessary. Leaking axle seal: Leaking pinion seal: Image borrowed from testdriver here. Probably break in material worn off the gears. Over time, the pinion seal wears and can become dry, cracked, or otherwise damaged, allowing fluid to leak out due to pinion bearing preload. Does your rear diff leak gear oil everywhere? Do you keep installing a new pinion seal and having the same problem? Everyone has or will have this problem wh Nov 10, 2016 · Whether your vehicle is front-, rear-, or all-wheel drive, a common component that all vehicles have is a gear differential. Clean the old sealant grease off the differential and the pan. Too-old oil cannot lubricate moving parts properly, causing the metal components to burn oil from the high temperature. With enough time, it is possible for a differential to lose enough fluid that lubricating and cooling properties become compromised. ma kt ds by mi rl cs la rh an