erickjab27

Hello, I noticed small little puddles of oil under my 2005 car about a week ago and checked the oil level which is still full. I took some pictures of where the oil is dripping down from. I cant find any oil dripping down when I open the hood, I can only see it from this one part underneath the car.
Does anyone know what part this is, How to fix it or how much it'll cost to fix it?
Also I bought some Gold Eagle Engine Oil Stop Leak, I haven't used it yet, does anyone know if its any good?
Thank you very much!

Here are the pictures:

BlingSlade

My best guess is the transaxle gasket and I'd take it to a mechanic right away. You might want to get two separate quotes, stay away from the authorized dealer they're the worst ripoffs.

erickjab27

Any idea how much it'll cost for an estimate and the actual repairs?

BlingSlade

First of all, I'm sorry you're having this issue with your xB. I've been in a similar situation and it's not pleasant. I think an estimate should be less than $100 and usually the mechanic will apply the estimate to your final bill if you choose them to repair it. The great thing is an estimate should tell you exactly what's wrong with your car and you can call around to other repair shops and comparison shop. You might want to get two different estimates to see if they come up with the exact same problem.

Car repairs are expensive, repair shops know you're in a bind and they take advantage of that. Depending on where you live I'm thinking if you just have a blown gasket then it's from $150-$350. If it's more than that then I'd do a lot of shopping around.

Good luck and please keep us posted!

erickjab27

Got a free inspection at NAPA (probably a little cheaper than this), the problem was the rear main oil seal which requires removing the transmission to get to the seal. $724 total for parts and labor including a transmission flush for $100 and $34 for the rear main seal parts. So i'm definitely going to be looking around for the best deal. I live in Gilbert, AZ just in case anyone wants to help me out with a good mechanic or deal!

BlingSlade

Okay, sounds like all they have to do is replace the gasket. I don't know what other parts they would need. Sounds like they want $900 for a $200 job, no shock there.

I'd definitely call around now and ask the repair shops how much to replace a leaky oil seal. I wouldn't mention the NAPA estimate. I'd use Yelp, Google, Yahoo, etc. to find mechanics in your local area. I think if you take your time and call around you can even counter offer their quotes. Car shops love to rip people off don't they?

Thanks for posting and let us know the updates!

bS