Transaxle/Transfer Output Oil Seal — Keep the drivetrain dry and protected ️
This seal sits where the drive shaft exits the transaxle or transfer unit. Its job is simple but vital: hold gear oil inside and keep dust, water, and road grit out. You need it to maintain correct lubrication and pressure, protecting bearings, gears, and clutches in spirited FWD/AWD applications. A fresh, tight seal prevents leaks, noise, and premature wear.
How it works ⚙️
Inside is a flexible elastomer lip backed by a garter spring. The lip rides on the shaft with a thin oil film, while micro ribs push oil back inward during rotation. The metal shell press-fits into the housing for a stable, leak-free seat. Quality materials (NBR/FKM) handle heat, speed, and modern lubricants without hardening.
What happens if it’s worn or damaged ❗
Tell-tales include wetness around the axle, gear-oil smell on hot exhaust, stains under the car, and whining or humming from the unit. Fluid loss leads to overheating and scoring of bearings/gears, CV joint contamination, and, if ignored, costly transfer/transaxle failure.
Install tips for a lasting fix
Inspect and polish the shaft if grooved, seat the seal square and flush with a proper driver, lightly oil the lip, clear the breather, renew companion O-rings/snap rings, refill with the specified fluid and quantity, and torque the axle nut to spec.
Compatibility
- Axela
- Atenza Mazdaspeed
- 3
- Speed 6
- 5
- Cx-7
- 6
- 6 Mps
- 6 Wagon
