🚗 Classic Fault — Mercedes-Benz (1976–1985)
W123 rear axle half shaft oil seal failure
💰 Estimated Repair Cost
$30 – $100 GBP
Parts and labour estimate
🔧 Tools Required
Axle shaft puller, seal driver
📋 Overview
The semi-trailing arm rear axle oil seals weep differential oil, contaminating the rear drum brakes.
🩺 Symptoms
- Oil on rear brake drums and shoes
- brake fade or grabbing at rear
- diff oil level dropping
🔍 Possible Causes
- Worn half shaft oil seals
- worn axle bearings accelerating seal wear
🛠️ Diagnosis Steps
Remove rear drums and inspect for oil contamination on shoes and drum face
✅ Most Confirmed Fix
Half shaft seal and bearing replacement
85% of users confirm this fix worked (21 reports)
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