My 2001 HSE has 215k, runs remarkably smooth (engine, trans, suspension) and I've only had to replace shocks, airbags, battery since owning it in 2019. I noticed a leak in my driveway this morning (red liquid) and smelled it to make sure it was what I thought it was...Trans fluid. I looked underneath and yep, it was leaking from what appears to be a worn gasket. But I also noticed a leak from a circular plate right next to the gasket leak (I noticed two missing bolts as well, not sure if they've always been gone). Does anyone know what that circular piece is and if so, why two leaks so close?

 

I’m certainly not a P38 transmission expert but it does look like those 2 bolts should be there. I don’t think you want to drive too much with your transmission leaking or you’ll end up with a lot bigger problem.

 

I don't have the answer either but the Discovery 2 has the same transmission, You may get more answers by asking in that forum...

 

Thanks. I got confirmation that it is the input seal leaking...sounds like a money leak to me lol. That circular plate is just a cover for the inspection hole for the torque converter so it's leaking from the seal down to the plate and out to the ground. On to the shop I go.

 

Thanks for keeping us informed. Hopefully it’s not too expensive. I guess they’ll need to remove the transmission to replace the seal. I wouldn’t think too much money, but several hundred bucks for the labour and only a few bucks for the seal.