LR
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Axles & drivelineLow severity

Axle pinion oil seal leak

Annoying rather than dangerous.

Symptoms

Oil on the propshaft flange and axle casing near the nose of the differential. Dropping axle oil level.

Likely cause

Worn pinion seal, often with a grooved flange or blocked axle breather building pressure.

Suggested fixes

Listed roughly in the order most owners try them.

  1. 1

    Replace the pinion seal and flange

    Mark the pinion nut position, replace the seal and flange, then retighten to preserve bearing preload.

    Difficulty:
    Moderate DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)
  2. 2

    Clear or extend the axle breather

    A blocked breather pressurises the axle. Clean it, or fit a raised breather kit for wading.

    Difficulty:
    Easy DIY
    Cost:
    £ (Under about £50 in parts)

This is general guidance gathered from owner experience and workshop practice, not a substitute for a workshop manual or a qualified mechanic. Costs are rough parts-only guides. Brakes, steering and suspension work affects safety, so if in doubt have it checked professionally.

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