Rear axle seal leaking

[mustang_52]

Ive got an 03 AWD vibe and the drivers side rear axle is leaking. Im wondering how hard it would be to replace this seal and whats involved. thanks

[Sublimewind]

What seal? Is it a wheel bearing seal, a rear diff. seal, a torn CV boot?? I've replaced a few rear wheel bearings not (though not on a Vibe) and a few CV shafts.. so I could possibly be of some help..

[joatmon]

What is leaking, one of the axle CV joints, or the rear differential?

[mustang_52]

Sorry guys for not putting that in there. its leaking from the seal where the shaft enters the differential. I have to get the drivers side axle out to replace it.

[joatmon]

There are a number of steps, I can't say how long it might take, it depends to some extent on what tools you have and if you have a good place to work on it. Matrixowners has a link to a softcopy of the 2003 matrix repair manual, and all of the AWD parts in it should apply to VIbes as well, the link is http://www.megaupload.com/?d=RK4K5SVS. I attached a single pdf out of that set, it lists the steps to get to the seal, but links to other pdfs for the procedures for those steps. THis will give you an idea of whats involved, to get the full info download the whole manual set.

Attached files x040001.pdf (45.3 KB) 

[mustang_52]

ALthough I probably could do it, there looks like alot of steps. I didnt want to pay a $100 deductible for a simple seal but I might just have to.