fifer16

Hello fellow Acurians,

I have a 96 Acura 3.5 RL. I am not sure if the previous owner took care of it well or not. When I test drove it ran fine, except check engine light on (will be getting diagnostic code soon). Didn't notice any major complaints. After I got the vehicle, ABS light turned on. Filled up brake fluid in ABS reservoir. Light went off for few minutes then turned back on (like to know possible diagnostics and fixture). Yesterday I tried to change differential fluid and transmission fluid. Both the drain bolts are extremely tight (how to unscrew these bolts?). Also I noticed fluid leak right below and at the juncture of engine and differential. There are fine lines, looked like brake lines, but not sure.

I am still learning to fix cars. Any help would be great. Sorry forgot to take pics. Thank you group!

mizuboi

I would suggest getting those codes first so we can better assist you. and as for removing the drain plugs from the trans and diff, you just need a decently long 3/8 ratchet and give it a good yank. the leak is most likely from the rear main seal. I'm currently doing mine right now and it may look like the leak is coming from everywhere but best guess is to clean off the area and drive it a bit and lift up the car again to see where the leak is coming from the most. I hope this helps!

fifer16

Thank you mizuboi. I got the differential drain and fill bolts with the help of penetrating fluid, but no success with transmission drain bolt. I gave up on that. Would you mind sending pics or starting a new thread about rear main seal you are working on? As for ABS codes I should go to Autozone or ask friend to help me find out ABS codes. Once codes are found I will post here for further help. Thank you again.