Front Axle seals leaking?

SHI X5 · #1 02-09-2009, 10:23 PM

I took my X5 in to the stealer for a small oil leak. They say it is from the front axle shaft seals. I have the Bentley manual and it looks like you have to raise the engine slightly to do this? Any short cuts on this? And has anyone else had oil leak from this? They show in the book that it does bolt up to the engine/oil pan and could be possible.

Your guys thoughts?

The oil leak is def on the bottom of the engine. Not the valve cover gasket they said. Also I had the VCG replaced a year ago.

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SHI X5 · #2 02-16-2009, 10:14 AM

OK I took the bottom plate off, cleaned all oil off, and ran the car to watch were it was leaking. It looks to be coming from the front of the engine on the bottom. I'll get pictures in a bit. Are there any gaskets on the front bottom of the engine that could leak? I am looking at the Bentley manual and can see front crankshaft seal? Maybe the gasket behind it is leaking? It has to be either that or the oil pan gasket in the front only. There are lines infront of the engine covered in oil. I think they are high pressure steering lines.

Is it possible to drop the oil pan just enough to slide a new gasket in place without ripping the axles out?

SHI X5 · #3 02-16-2009, 10:15 AM

Also, my engine is the 3.0. (wish it wasn't) ha

01 BMW_X5 · #4 02-16-2009, 10:47 AM

It may be from the crank oil seal. Use a flashlight and you may be able to identify where the leak is.

SHI X5 · #5 02-16-2009, 10:54 AM

Lets hope it is that. Has to be an easier job than oil pan gasket.

01 BMW_X5 · #6 02-16-2009, 11:09 AM

YMMV.
Getting the crank bolt loose can be a bitc*.
I broke the special tool trying to get it loose.
Had to use heat.

SHI X5 · #7 02-16-2009, 11:38 AM

How bad was yours leaking? I might have a few drops each day on my garage. I am going to tear into it soon. If it is that, I'll replace that seal and both gaskets.

All parts total about $30.

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