Analysis of Leakage

Power Transfer Unit (PTU)

Analysis of Leakage

NOTE: There are 2 different PTU configurations used depending on the transaxle. The repairs made for leakage on these 2 different PTUs may vary depending upon the type and location of the leakage. The specified tools called out will allow seal replacement without causing damage to the PTU case and drive gear.

The PTU may leak different color fluids, red ATF or tan/brown/black gear lube. The PTU and transaxle seals prevent these types of fluids from leaking. It is important to note which color of fluid is leaking to determine the most appropriate service procedure. The residue of red ATF should be cleaned from the PTU to prevent a inaccurate diagnosis of a red ATF leak following the repair.

PTU Leaks From the RH Side

Vehicles Equipped with Aisin AW21 Transaxle

NOTE: The intermediate shaft seal functions as a dust seal and is not a source of a red ATF leak.

If the leak is red ATF, this indicates the transaxle seal is leaking and needs to be replaced.

If the leak is tan/brown/black gear lube, the PTU cover seal is leaking and needs to be replaced. This cover seal is located on the PTU cover, behind the deflector. For additional information, refer to Cover Seal Cover Seal procedure.

Vehicles Equipped with 6F35 Transaxle

If the leak is red ATF, this indicates the intermediate shaft seal is leaking and needs to be replaced. For additional information, refer to Intermediate Shaft Seal - 6F35 Removal procedure.

If the leak is tan/brown/black gear lube, the PTU cover seal is leaking and needs to be replaced. The cover seal is located on the PTU cover, behind the deflector. For additional information, refer to Cover Seal Cover Seal procedure.

PTU Leaks From the LH Side

Vehicles Equipped with Aisin AW21 Transaxle

NOTE: The compression seal functions as a dust seal and is not the main source of the red ATF leak.

If the leak is red ATF, this indicates the transaxle seal is leaking and needs to be replaced.

If the leak is tan/brown/black gear lube and not at the vent, check the non-serviceable PTU inboard seal for leakage. If the PTU inboard seal is leaking, the PTU must be replaced. If the leak is from the vent, the PTU may be overfilled. Determine if the red ATF has entered the PTU. If red ATF has entered the PTU, the transaxle seal and PTU must be replaced.

Vehicles Equipped with 6F35 Transaxle

If the leak is red ATF, this indicates the transaxle seal is leaking and needs to be replaced.

If the leak is tan/brown/black gear lube, the PTU may be overfilled and leaking from the vent. If the PTU is overfilled, adjust the level as necessary. If the leak is not at the vent, the non-serviceable PTU inboard seal is leaking and the PTU must be replaced. For additional information, refer to Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Removal.