Differential Oil Leak

[moosehead]

Was checking the rear tyre tread at the weekend and noticed quite a bit of oil leaking from the rear differential onto the exhaust - looks like its coming from the n/s of the diff so presumably it's a seal related to this drive shaft. The warrenty runs out early next month so I'll get it booked in pronto with my local dealer. Does anyone know if this is a common problem on C Class diffs? The vehicle is almost 3 years old with 45K miles.

 

[Blobcat]

It is quite common on the W210 series, in that the breather on top of the diff blocks and so oil is forced past the oil seals.

 

[Gunzi]

Sorry to dig up an old thread. Is the answer to simply unblock the breather to stop the oil being forced through the seals?

 

[television]

By all means clear the vent, but do remember that MB axles do look messy as the oil foams when hot. by all means top it up

 

[moosehead]

Mine were replaced under warrantly apparently with updated modified seals. They also did the prop one whilst the diff was out although it was the nearside drive shaft one that was leaking. Not what you would expect at less than 3 years old with 45K miles.

 

[vijilants]

If it was done by the dealer, there should be a two year warranty on the work.