Hey guys. I have a 2006 Tribute here that is on its last leg. the transmission is dying and I dont think it has much life left.

brought it to a shop the other day and they found a few things wrong.

one was the rear axle seals. they want $100 in parts and $150 labor to do this.

how critical is this if the seals leak a little? pretty sure the car is gonna be retired this year anyways. is that oil for the rear diff? if so, could we just keep the diff at a reasonable level?

another is the front sway bar end links. those arent a critical steering component are they? shop wants $280 to replace those.

are these something that can be done ourselves for about $100 in parts and a days work?

if we ignored those 2 things.. what could happen?

any help and advice would be greatly appreciated

thanks!

 

Swaybar links are very important. Its not a difficult job to do yourself, sockets, spanners, maybe allen keys, & rust penetrant spray.

 

where is the best place to get new sway bar end links?

what is leaking out of the rear axle seals? my rear diff fluid?

something like this? Brand New 10-Piece Complete Front Suspension Kit 2005-2009 Ford Escape & Mariner | eBay


or just this would be enough?

Front Sway Bar End Links Left & Right Pair Set NEW for Ford Mazda Mercury Toyota | eBay

 

2nd listing looks like what you need.

The leak will be rear diff oil/fluid. Unless it's pissing out, just top it up & keep driving.

 

awesome, I was actually able to find OEM ones for basically the same price, so I went that route instead

Genuine Mazda Tribute Link ZZC0-34-150A | eBay

will check the diff and pour a little in there... any ol 80W gear oil should do? approx how much should it hold?

thanks for the help. appreciate it.

 

GL-5 SAE 80W-90 approximately 1.4ltr capacity.