I have a 2008 H3 and I have noticed leaking from the rear differential. There is always a little drop hanging from it and sometimes a drop on the driveway. I thought it was the drain plug leaking but the mechanic said it was tight. They recommend I do a differential rebuild, basically replacing all the seals, for $400. Is there an easier way around this?

 

Lol. That is a lot of money. I'd just keep topped off and put a new lube locker seal on the diff cover.

Chris

 

I can't tell from the photo. Is there any fluid on the front of the rear diff? If so that is the source of your leak (the pinion seal). As you drive the air flow pushes the leaking fluid.

 

is there a vent that is plugged?

 

Tainter is correct. If there is a stain near the front pinion seal it will blow back onto the cover.
I had a similar leak and it was the front dif pinion seal and it was changed by the dealer for less than half what you mentioned.

 

My '06 also leaked rear-end gear oil after a while. It was the front seal and it was covered under warranty. A common issue according to my dealer at the time.

 

Thanks for all the replies. I attached another picture from down low. It doesn't look that the fluid comes from anywhere further forward than the bottom plug.

 

Happythree. Where is the vent located and how does it look?

 

All it takes is a $10.00 seal, 1 hour with the proper tools, and a couple of beers. Don't forget to get some 75w90 GL-5 (synthetic) diff fluid to top off, or if you haven't done in awhile, diff fluid change. GL

 

hope its not the front seal, tricky to do right, bearing preload,etc.
if a vent plugged it might make pressure and seals leak.
tubing and a rubber hose? go looking.