Replacing axle seal

[illini97]

Hi, I have an 2004 Mazda3. After doing the oil change, the dealership told me that they found some signs of leakage on the bottom of tranny. To try to pinpoint the problem, their recommanded service is to replace the left axle seal ($162) first, degrease then test drive to determine if the pan is also leaking. Just wanted to get everyone's opinion here. Does this make sense? Is the axle seal easy to replace? If so, I'd probably want to try doing that myself or have some other shops do it for a cheaper price. What do you guys think?

illini97

 

[flash75]

It's not an easy job to replace the seal because the axle must be removed to access the seal. This link describes axle replacement, it will give you and idea of what is involved.
http://www.popularmechanics.com/how_to_central/automotive/1715877.html?page=3

Notice there are some tools required that may not be in your tool box. It can be dangerous if you don't have jack stands and a good solid surface to work.

In my opinion your dealer price is fair considering the amount of work involved. Based on what you say they aren't sure if it's the seal or the pan. I think it would be best to degrease first and inspect for the source of the leak rather than replacing the seal and then degreasing to check.

Clifton

 

[illini97]

It's not an easy job to replace the seal because the axle must be removed to access the seal. This link describes axle replacement, it will give you and idea of what is involved.
http://www.popularmechanics.com/how_to_central/automotive/1715877.html?page=3

Notice there are some tools required that may not be in your tool box. It can be dangerous if you don't have jack stands and a good solid surface to work.

In my opinion your dealer price is fair considering the amount of work involved. Based on what you say they aren't sure if it's the seal or the pan. I think it would be best to degrease first and inspect for the source of the leak rather than replacing the seal and then degreasing to check.

Clifton

That's a great suggestion. Thanks Clifton. I'll talk with the dealer today to see if they can degrease first before performing any work to it.