E-Class (W210) 1995-2002: E 200, E 220D, E 240, E 290TD, E 300TD, E 200, E 240, E 280, E 320, E 420, E 430 (Wagon, Touring, 4Matic)

Where's the leak?

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Old 09-30-2014, 04:08 PM
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1999 E320 4-matic Wagon
Where's the leak?

Hello. Own a '99 E320 4Matic. Have noticed what appears to be an oil(?) spot located under passenger-side rear tire area. Oil level is fine-any idea what this may be?

Thank you.
Old 09-30-2014, 08:19 PM
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1999 E300TD
Rather than a WAG, why not put the car on a lift and do some self diagnostics, however, my WAG is shock, differential, brake and or rear wheel bearring fluid!!
Old 10-01-2014, 07:00 AM
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1999 E320 4-matic Wagon
I Put a pan under the vehicle-seems to be a amber-colored fluid leaking from between the two rear wheels-please advise as I don't know much about this stuff...

Thank you.
Old 10-01-2014, 07:41 AM
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1999 E320 4-matic Wagon
Not good with colors-looks like olive oil - not amber.
Old 10-01-2014, 08:41 AM
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1999 E300TD
I agree withn you---it has to be -----a amber-colored fluid leaking from between the two rear wheels-------sounds like diffetential fluid---bad seal, the good news for the mechanic is that is an expensive repair!!! Bring the wife and loads of kids for the estimate process!!
Old 10-01-2014, 01:44 PM
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1999 E320 4-matic Wagon
Just an update: Brought it to a mechanic-rear differential is leaking, seals need to be replaced; also appears front has starting leaking, too. Awaiting estimate for both to be repaired. Anyone have an idea of this cost?

Thank you all for your help...
Old 10-01-2014, 01:53 PM
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I'd be a little curious about that diagnosis. Gear oil is thick, typically gets dark very quickly, and has a pretty awful odor to it.

If the leak is a light colored fluid, I'd be more inclined to believe its brake fluid.
Old 10-01-2014, 03:49 PM
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Regardless of one or all differential seal replacement---the differential must be removed---my guess is $1746.68

PS: If some SA says this is an easy DIY---run!!
Old 10-01-2014, 04:21 PM
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1999 E320 4-matic Wagon
$1746.00 - you're over...
Old 10-07-2014, 01:52 PM
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2001 E430, 2002 ML55
Originally Posted by Plutoe
Regardless of one or all differential seal replacement---the differential must be removed---my guess is $1746.68 PS: If some SA says this is an easy DIY---run!!
DIY it!

New diff, new brake lines, vacuum lines, etc! Just kidding.

Diff shouldn't be horrible if you have the right knowledge and are handy with cars. If not....yea.

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