[mjgreen81]

Hi all,

I have a 2013 320i xDrive.

I noticed what I thought was a possible leaking driveshaft seal, but after a closer look I'm not so sure.

This view is looking through the front passenger wheel (on a right hand drive car) at the drive shaft. You can see the dark buildup of grime which I thought was a seal leak but after touching it, it doesn't feel fresh, just feels like a build of old grime. You can see the consistency in the photo on my finger.

Any opinions on whether this is a leak? I did have the front diff fluid changed when I bought the car (around 6months ago) and the mechanic didn't mention this.

Any opinions appreciated. Thank you

[328iX]

Output shaft seal on the differential.

It does look like a very slow weep vs a leak based off the build up like you said.

[mjgreen81]

Originally Posted by 328iX

Output shaft seal on the differential.

It does look like a very slow weep vs a leak based off the build up like you said.

If it is just a weep, does it still need replacing? If yes, does it need immediate attention or can it wait until it's in the garage for other work?

[328iX]

Originally Posted by mjgreen81

If it is just a weep, does it still need replacing? If yes, does it need immediate attention or can it wait until it's in the garage for other work?

Definitely does not need replacing immediately. I had one on my last car that I noticed 1,000 miles after warranty ended, and even though it was saturated like yours, BMW refused to do it.

I went to a shop and they charged around $600 for both sides.

If your fluid is clean and at the proper level this weep won't affect it at all. Most people wouldn't even address it.

[Liandri]

I would leave it alone. Top the fluid off every 6 months and if it ever starts dripping/gets much worse, address it then

[mjgreen81]

Thanks all, appreciate your thoughts.