I have a 04 vauxhall zafira 1.6 on 53k, Gear oil is leaking from a cover plate which has large cracks on it, could this mean there is a internal problem with the gearbox and needs re placeing or just needs a new cover plate?

gary, March 2010

Normally when the differential gears break up, it produces a considerable hole in the cover plate. You probably need to take the cover plate off anyway to check. You will see broken gears and teeth if there is a problem. If not you will need new gasket and cover and to refill with gear oil

marty, June 2010

I have the same issue. Zafira 1.6 life '07 the base plate which has hexagon bolts is all oily & wet. No Oil is dripping on to the floor but there is a definite slow leak. where do i need to look first to sort this out? could this be a broken seal or something? car seems to drive fine.

Basher, June 2010