Leaks

Sealing Components:

- Check the Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) and speedometer cable connection at the transaxle. Replace the rubber seal if necessary.
- Leakage at the transaxle pan to case gasket often can be stopped by tightening the retaining bolts. If necessary, replace the transaxle pan-to-case gasket.
- Check the chain cover gasket.
- Check the wiring connector to chain cover. Replace wiring connector assembly, if necessary.
- Check the fluid filler tube connection at the case. If leakage is found here, install a new grommet.

CAUTION: Do not try to stop the fluid leak by increasing the torque beyond specification. This may cause damage to the case threads.

- Check fluid lines and fittings between the transaxle and the cooler in the radiator tank for looseness, wear or damage. If leakage cannot be stopped by tightening a fluid tube nut, replace the damaged parts. When fluid is found leaking between the case and cooler line fitting, check for missing or damaged O-ring, then tighten the fitting.

CAUTION: Do not try to stop the fluid leak by increasing the torque beyond specification. This may cause damage to the case threads.

- If the leak continues, replace cooler line fitting and tighten.
- Check the engine coolant in the radiator. If transmission fluid is present in the coolant, the transaxle fluid cooler in the radiator is probably leaking.
- The transaxle fluid cooler can be further checked for leaks by disconnecting the lines from the cooler fittings and applying 345 kPa (50 psi) air pressure to the fittings. Remove the radiator cap to relieve the pressure buildup at the exterior of the transaxle fluid cooler tank. If the transaxle fluid cooler is leaking and/or will not hold pressure, the transaxle fluid cooler must be replaced.
- Check for fluid leaking from the differential seals. Leakage may result from damaged seals, missing garter springs or a worn halfshaft/linkshaft. Replace the seal and/or halfshaft as necessary. If leakage is found at the manual lever. replace the seal.
- Check the steering gear system. The power steering gear system is positioned over the rear of the transaxle and is filled with transmission fluid. Leaks from the steering gear may pool on the transaxle before dripping onto the ground, thus giving the appearance of a transmission fluid leak.
- Inspect both components carefully before disassembling either. After an engine oil filter change, some residual oil may blow back on the transaxle giving the appearance of transmission fluid leakage. The area should be cleaned and checked after running the engine.