I just went out and washed my car and while I was washing the wheel, I noticed it was covered with oil. I looked around and I think it is coming from my axle. I have a 1990 4runner and the oil is coming from the rear axle. Does this mean my seal is bad or something? Just though I would ask. Is it okay if I drive on it for awhile or should I get it checked out. Thanks, Sorry for the newbie question. I thought I would post here instead of pirate4X4 in fear of getting flamed.
-Pat

 

hwere on the axle is it coming from? could ba a number of places, could even be the tranny leaking backwards onto it....

 

youll know if its gear oil, it has a very distinct smell. its a bit of a job to replace the seal but doable with a handy helper. i could also be wheel cylinder (brake fluid) leaking, easier but you have to bleed the brakes when done. either way, your going to get: dirty, cut, scraped, bruised. when you are done, youll feel pretty darn good about doing it yourself.

lee

 

where is it leaking... becasue it could be axle seals, pinion seal or bad wheel cylinders...

 

Could just be a clogged breather, too. They've been known to cause the oil to come out when the rear end gets warm and there's no place for the excess pressure to escape. It forces the oil out of the rear axle seals. Fix the breather and it stops, no damage done.