Differential Leak
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 48
Likes: 0
2007 E350 Sport Sedan
Differential Leak
Just brought a 97 E320 a six months ago. I notice some fluid had leaked onto my garage floor. The fluid was black and did not smell like oil or transmission fluild but leake in the area of the transmission pan, so I suspect that it could be differential fluid. I am a DIYer but inexperince with MB. Could someone help determined if the diagnostic of the problem is correct.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 1,564
Likes: 19
From: SoCal
98 Brilliant Silver E320 Wagon
I think the first step is to either put the car on a lift (best choice) or on jack stands so you can look underneath. If a leak isn't obvious clean everything as well as possible and check periodically.
The second step would be to check each of the fluids such as brake, oil, transmission, differential and power steering. Leaking fluids can pick up dirt as they run along the underbody of the car so color is only a clue.
The second step would be to check each of the fluids such as brake, oil, transmission, differential and power steering. Leaking fluids can pick up dirt as they run along the underbody of the car so color is only a clue.
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 525
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From: the Netherlands
'01 W210 E320 CDI
The diff is in the back between the rear wheels. So if you have a leak around the transmission pan it cannot be the diff. The trans-oil changes into black and also changes in smell. The 722.6 has been known to develop an oil leak at the electrical connector on the passenger side in front of the hydraulic block. Take a look at that area. When you've fixed the leak It's also a good plan to changeout the trans fluid and filter. Do a search in these forums for extensive info on this...
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 48
Likes: 0
2007 E350 Sport Sedan
problem solved
The diff is in the back between the rear wheels. So if you have a leak around the transmission pan it cannot be the diff. The trans-oil changes into black and also changes in smell. The 722.6 has been known to develop an oil leak at the electrical connector on the passenger side in front of the hydraulic block. Take a look at that area. When you've fixed the leak It's also a good plan to changeout the trans fluid and filter. Do a search in these forums for extensive info on this...
