CRV Rear Dif problem

[Mark13]

(Sorry about posting this boring question), but does anybody know how the oil in the rear dif of a diesel CRV can get contaminated? I am being told that with the oil changed there will be no bearing damage but it is still a concern.

[foggy]

Is there a specific problem with the diff other than the used oil looking like black treacle? The rear diff is a sealed unit so no potential for contamination internally or by mixing with other fluids, only if muck is getting in from the outside somehow. Similarly, when I changed the diff oil in my S2000 it looked black and crucified.

I spent a short time with Honda working on CRVs - we had one which made a horrible grinding noise when reversing around a corner. We drained the diff oil, refilled it with fresh oil and drove a few miles to flush it, then drained and refilled it again with fresh oil and the noise went completely.

[Mark13]

Thanks mate, the problem you describe is exactly what was happening. I was told it was condensation! causing the contamination. It now feels perfect and the overall accelaration and general pick up of the engine is better. The real issue is that this is my wifes car and she does very few miles (8k per year)and tends to change up very early.