Diagnostics and checks of the front axle (Defender 2007+)

Oil leaks

External grease leakage from the hub seals can be caused by a faulty internal seal. For example, if the seals that separate the differential from the hubs are faulty and the vehicle is driven or parked with one side higher than the other, oil from the differential can flood one hub, causing the differential to lose grease.

When a seal leak is detected, check the axle ventilation system, as if it is blocked, the increase in internal pressure can cause oil to be forced out through the seals.

Drawings with the location of oil seals are given in the chapter "Design and operation".

For more information, see: Front Drive Axle and Differential (205-03 Front Drive Axle/Differential, Description and Operating Principle).

When investigating a hub seal leak, check for oil in the grease. Also check the differential oil level, any signs of metal particles in the oil, and the condition of the internal seals.

When a vehicle with defective oil seals crosses a deep ford, water can contaminate the lubricant and raise the differential oil level, creating the false impression that the crankcase is full. Do not assume that a high differential oil level is a consequence of overfilling during refuelling, and that a low level is necessarily a consequence of an external leak.