Yes, it's true - my 2004 SRX AWD just received a new differential at 85,000 miles. Syptoms started with gear oil spray from around the pinion seal - dealer says "that's normal". Checked gear oil level and topped off.

Another month later a "grrrrr" sound from the differential is more noticable. Take to the dealer - "that's normal".

Another couple months later, the "GRRRRR" sound is loud enough that passengers start complaining. Take to the dealer and get a quote for over $2,000 for a new differential.

Took it to the Continental Transmission shop and they found a rebuilt differential and installed it for $1,200.

Geeezz...

 

yup, mine sometimes leaks oil and sometimes it don't. now i'm hearing a rattleing clanking sound. mmm what to do.

 

What you do is instead of buying a whole new $1200 rebuilt rear end like that guy did, is to take it to a shop and have the ring and pinion gear replaced which is much cheaper. If you can't find someone in a normal car shop that'll do it, take it to a 4X4 shop. They change those things out daily!

Oh and to anyone else who reads these things, any time any type of fluid is leaking out of a vehicle, it is NOT NORMAL. The dealer just didn't want to screw around with it, which is also why when the guy eventually did get him to change it, he just swapped a whole axle out because it is faster! We all know dealerships are useless so I still have yet to understand why people who are out of warranty still go there!