Transmission fluid drip

[atledreier]

Hi. I've had a very slow drip of fluid last few weeks. I thought it was just AC discharge, but it turns out it's transmission fluid. Maybe two-three drops per week when the car is driven, no drips when the car s parked. It's center of the car, just behind the front wheels. I don't have a lift so I can't get a good look, but what are common leak points in that area?

[Nobby]

The only real places for the oil to leak are from the unions and pipes that link to the cooler, the side and rear flanges (although these have their own diff oil in them - so it could be those leaking instead - rear is fairly common) or the sump plug/filler or out gasket. The main sections of the gearbox casing could also leak, but it'd be pretty rare for those to leak.

It'd be hard to tell if the front inner flange (where the torque converter joins to the engine) is leaking because oil could also leak out from the engine to that area too.

Check the hoses first and go from there. Has it ever had a gearbox oil change?

[atledreier]

It had a change 120.000km ago, it's due another one at the next service (242.500) now.

I'll check the hoses for the cooler, that sounds easier than a main shaft seal.

[Shoppinit]

Sounds more like the transfer box flange oil seal. Common fault.

[atledreier]

Hiw difficult is that to fix?

[Shoppinit]

Not too bad. Check the FAQ for a good DIY.

[Jay_g]

I did it the other day, did it on a ramp in about an hour, and was taking it easy. Didn't come across any problems either.

[Nobby]

^ Apart from when it starts leaking again in a weeks time

[Jay_g]

^ Apart from when it starts leaking again in a weeks time

Fingers crossed it doesn't , only pushed it in the 6mm or whatever the FAQ says

[atledreier]

Sounds good. I'll have a look when I do the brakes and bearing that she also needs.... Ad the brake hose... And the DRC lines.... And the new battery... *sigh*

[Jay_g]

I have a set of brand new genuine exhaust clamps if you need them

But I guess your not in the UK, so doubt it will be economical..

[atledreier]

Yeah, in Norway, so I'll source them locally if needed. She needs some love in many areas, sadly.

[audi_driver79]

Back in 2012 I had a small leak from the gearbox which never reappeared after getting it serviced fingers crossed.

[atledreier]

Had a look yesterday, and there's transmission fluid everywhere. Seems to be the flange seal, and the shaft is throwing the oil everywhere. Left side. Can anyone confirm it's 01L 409 399 that goes in there?

[Shoppinit]

Which shaft? Drive shaft to front left wheel?