2001 5401 6 Speed Differential Leak

[clbdc]

Doing a Preventative Maintenance inspection myself (rather than having a dealer do it, as in past, I found this seepage-leakage (glistening brown area) in front of, and above, the point where the drive shaft is joined to the differential. Car has 104,200 miles.


Oil level seems OK (dribbles out when filler bolt loosened), but I would welcome any advice on whether this is a sign of something to be repaired, replaced, ignored, whatever...Many thanks...

[Bob]

I wouldn't worry about it, might only be grease from the CV driveshaft, from centrifugal force, the front diff. seal area looks drier than the shiny area. The side axle seals are much easier to replace than the pinion seal, just watch the diff. oil level, I've never seen a catastropic diff. oil loss. Bob

[bostonbmw]

I would clean the area so you can check how quickly it leaks and where it is coming from(carb cleaner works well).

[Nick325xiT 5spd]

If it's the CV joint, you should make sure there's adequate grease in there.

[clbdc]

Appreciate all three recommendations, which I will follow...

All the best...