Canada - Drivetrain - Transfer Case ATF Leak
BulletinTSB2610
Issue Date
November 6, 2008
Title
ATF LEAK FROM TRANSFER CASE
Component
Driveline
Models
'08- '09 RX 350
INTRODUCTION:
Some customers may complain about a red fluid leaking from the transfer case vent on top of the transfer case or between the transfer case and transaxle. The root cause of this issue is related to damage to an O-ring during the transfer case assembly process allowing automatic transmission fluid (ATF) to enter the transfer case during vehicle operation. Production countermeasures have been implemented at the transfer case supplier. Replacement of the transfer case assembly will be required to repair the vehicle.
NOTE
This condition is an assembly-related issue and will most likely appear prior to 8,000 kilometers of use.
APPLICABLE VEHICLES:
PRODUCTION CHANGE INFORMATION:
This TSB applies to vehicles produced BEFORE the Production Change Effective VINs shown.
PARTS INFORMATION:
WARRANTY INFORMATION:
REQUIRED SSTs:
REQUIRED TOOLS & MATERIAL:
REPAIR PROCEDURE:
1. Identify source of red fluid leaking from vehicle.
A. Is red fluid leaking between the transfer case and the transaxle assembly?
If YES-This TSB applies - Go to step 3.
B. Is red fluid leaking from the transfer case breather plug (vent) on top of the front side of the transfer case?
If YES - This TSB applies - Go to Step 2.
If NO to question 1A and 1B, then this TSB does NOT apply. Continue diagnosis to determine root cause of fluid leak.
2. Check the transfer case fluid level. Refer to the Repair Manual within E-TAS / TIS library:
- Division: Lexus
- Model: RX 350
- Year: 2008 or 2009
- Service Category: Drivetrain
- Section: Transfer 4WD/Awd
- Keyword: MF2A Transfer: Transfer Oil: On-Vehicle Inspection
Also refer to Figure 3 to assist in identifying the transfer plug No. 1. Confirm that transfer case fluid (gear oil) is overfilled or appears to be contaminated with ATF prior to going to next step.
3. Replace the transfer case assembly
Refer to the Repair Manual within E-TAS / TIS library:
- Division: Lexus
- Model: RX 350
- Year: 2008 or 2009
- Service Category: Drivetrain
- Section: Transfer 4WD/Awd
- Keyword: MF2A Transfer: Transfer Assembly: Removal
- Keyword: MF2A Transfer: Transfer Assembly: Installation
4. Check ATF level in automatic transaxle and confirm level is correct. Adjust as needed.
5. Test drive vehicle and confirm there is NO leak from the transfer case
NOTE:
Issue of this Technical Service Bulletin is to ensure that proper repair information is available. IT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN AUTHORIZATION FOR REPAIR. Normal provisions of the formal warranty policy, as applicable, will apply.