An automatic transmission fluid leak may be observed at the transfer case weep hole on various year (2007-2010) Buick Enclave, Chevy Equinox, Chevy Traverse, GMC Acadia, GMC Terrain, Pontiac Torrent GXP, Suzuki XL-7, Saturn Vue and Saturn Outlook.
A red fluid leak may be observed at the transfer case/PTU weep hole farthest from the transmission, near the passenger side. This is caused by a leak at the front wheel drive intermediate shaft (inner) seal. Due to low ambient temperature combined with various runout conditions between the intermediate drive shaft and the input shaft, the seal material may not properly seal the ATF.
The fix involves replacing the front wheel drive intermediate (inner) shaft seal with a newly designed seal.
NOTE: Selecting the correct replacement seal is critical due to a 2008 mid-model design update.
For Acadia, Enclave, Outlook and Traverse:
For vehicles built prior to VIN 8J217964, use the first-design seal P/N 19180998 (green). For vehicle built on or after VIN 8J217964, use the second-design seal P/N 19206322 (green).
For Equinox, Terrain, Torrent and Vue:
For vehicles built prior to VIN 86075818, use the first-design seal P/N 19180998 (green). For vehicles built on or after VIN 86075818, use the second-design seal P/N 19206322 (green).
For Suzuki XL7:
For vehicles built prior to VIN 86115983, use the first-design seal P/N 19180998 (green). For vehicle built on or after VIN 86115983, use the second-design seal P/N 19206322 (green).
The second-design seals are not compatible with first-design transfer cases. Installing a second-design seal in a first-design transfer case will create a transmission fluid leak, due to interference with the input shaft.
Installing the replacement seal to the proper depth is critical. Use the DT-48078 Inner Drive Shaft Seal Installer with a J8092 Driver Handle to install the seal 2.8mm (0.11 in.) from the end of the input shaft (SEE “a” callout in illustration).
Depending on the vehicle, labor time is estimated at 3.5 to 4.7 hours.
