How to tell if repair of rear main seal in 98T-5 was done

[SandyB]

I am considering purchasing a '98 T-5 with 180K (for $4450.00) with a bad rear main seal. The seller said he would replace it and add $250.00 on to the purchase price. I know replacing these seals usually costs anywhere from $600-$1000.00, so I am leary of his $250.00 quote.

How can I tell if this seal has actually been replaced (other than seeing no leak out of the bottom of the car)? I am concerned because I have heard there is an additive you can put in your vehicle which is a "quick fix" and makes the seal swell and temporarily stops the leak. Is this true? If so, how can I make sure he has actually done the repair?

Thanks for your help!

[kelvin6]

Can you specify which seal it is. Rear main seal to me can mean a lot of things. About the additives, I've heard a lot of people say that it works and others that say it doesn't. In my opinion, I wouldn't even dare to put that stuff into my engine (no additives whatsoever). I fear that the gunk that seals up my seals or any component, might end up gunking up my injectors for example, causing expensive repairs down the road. The best opinion is to ask a mechanic.

To answer one more question, if you ask the seller to change the seal, meet with him and have him show you the new part, and after repairs are done, have him retain the old part for you to see. Although if its a gasket, there may not be much left to see. Good luck!

[White850Turbo]

rear main seal = rear crank seal. If the guy is doing the work himself, then $250 seems reasonable, as the seal itself costs only $20. To be totally sure though, you'll need to do a visual inspection. Here is a picture showing where the oil usually leaks out of when a rear main seal leak is present. It is between the engine and transmission.

[SandyB]

Hey, Thanks So Much for the picture! The car is supposedly ready and I'm going back to check it out again...this time from underneath the car! I really appreciate it!

SandyB