Located near the pinion shaft in the differential of vehicles, the pinion seal is an integral component of the car that prevents fluid leakage out of the differential. It also prevents water, debris, or dirt from getting into the differential.
Depending on the make and model, automobiles can either have a rear pinion seal or a front and a rear one. Pinion seals are among the most abused components of any car. They are exposed to road pebbles, dust and often get submerged in mud. Besides, they rarely get maintenance since most car owners ignore the undercarriage unless a serious problem occurs.
Like any part of a vehicle, the pinion seal, specifically the rubber on it, will wear down after some time.
As the rubber on the pinion seal wears down, the pinion seal’s functionality is affected. It starts becoming less and less effective and cause leakages. For this reason, you should check the pinion seal every time you schedule your car for maintenance.
A faulty pinion seal will result in fluid seeping out or a major leak depending on the extent of its failure. Worry not, because if replaced early, it won't lead to severe damage to other parts.
In this article, we take a look at some of the common tell-tale signs you should watch out for if you suspect that your car’s rear pinion seal is out of order.
What are the signs of a faulty rear pinion seal?
1. Leaking pinion seal
Leakage from the differentials is the most noticeable and significant sign of a faulty pinion seal. The pinion seal prevents oil from leaking out of the differential. If you notice leaking oil, then it means that the pinion seal is no longer working as it is supposed to.
Checking whether the pinion seal is leaking is simple. Start from the driveshaft to the rear axle and inspect the area around the flange for any oil leakages. If the pinion seal is functioning correctly, you will find the area clean, dry, and free of any oil. The presence of oil or wetness around the area means that you have a pinion seal leak which translates to a faulty pinion seal.
Immediately set an appointment with your mechanic for a pinion seal replacement once you notice oil leaks.
2. The differential has low fluid levels
Sometimes you may fail to notice leakage in the differentials not because the pinion seal is in good condition but because it is not leaking at the time of inspection. If the fluid level in your differential is below normal, a leak from a faulty pinion seal is very possible.
If this is the case, contact a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Pinion seal replacement is straightforward and inexpensive, so there's no need to wait till things are out of hand.
Besides, if the fluid levels keep falling, there will be an increase of friction and consequent wearing down of the gears. At this point, you will spend more to fix the issue as other parts such as the differential will be involved.
3. Whining noise when your vehicle is in motion
Whining noises when you're driving indicates that there isn't enough fluid in the differential. It could either be a faulty pinion seal that is leaking or any issue with your car’s differential. When you hear a whining sound, the next step is to figure out the problem.
A visit to your auto repair shop should clear up the issue. Ask your mechanic to diagnose the car and fix the problem. The repair shouldn't take long.
We don't recommend driving with a faulty pinion seal as it results in more damage that will eventually cost you more money and time. Replacing a defective pinion seal should be part of your car maintenance routine. Remember that a well-maintained vehicle will be able to serve you for longer.
Should I leave pinion seal replacement to professionals or do it myself?
If you have some knowledge regarding parts replacements and the right equipment to use, you can replace the pinion seal by yourself at the garage. However, if you lack the proper equipment or you're not well versed with pinion seal replacement, we recommend leaving it to the professionals.
Besides, mechanics will be able to spot any other problems with the differential. When you drive your car to the auto repair shop, ask the mechanic to look around for any issues that could develop later. This way, you can save yourself from making another trip to the mechanic for problems related to the pinion seal.
We hope it’s not yet too late for you to replace a defective pinion seal. If the problem has already damaged other parts and you need to replace them, you can find used car parts through Carpart.com.au. Try our auto part finder and order parts from the safety of your home!
By Sam O.