I have a 2015 Ford Escape 4WD and notice a line under my passenger side back tire was wet and slimy. I followed it to the end and I had to take off the padding on the outside about the tire to find what I think is the rear differential breather. I’m not 100% sure if it’s that but it’s all wet and slimy. It’s leaks a little bit on under the car. Why would it be doing this and is that the rear differential breather? Thanks!

 

Question we always ask,
Did you drive through any high water recently?

If moisture gets into the differential, it will of course raise the fluid level , but if the lube coming out is not soupy looking it might only be that the differential could be overfilled.

 

I haven’t driven in any high waters. It did rain a a lot for a few weeks straight and I had my oil changed/tire rotation about 3 weeks ago. Should I bring it to the mechanic to have the differential fluid checked?

 

If you were talented enough to spot the source and photograph it, to me that takes more work than to remove a plug and see how much if anything comes out..

The plug has a recessed square depression , 3/8 inch square, is located on the passenger side of the differential. All you would do is to unscrew the plug and see if it has been overfilled. The correct level is even with the lower portion of the opening. If a lot runs out , it was overfilled. If nothing runs out, all you do is stick your finger into the hole and see if it gets any lubricant on your finger tip. If you see lubricant on your finger put the plug back in and forget about it. Just make sure the plug is tight.
If you don;t feel any lubricant , that means the level is low and the correct lubricant should be added. This is easy to do and you can do it. What do you think?

You would use a 3/8 drive ratchet to remove and tighten the plug.

If you are not comfortable doing this, by all means have your shop check it .