Leaking differential, will it have to completely come out?

[Styral]

While changing my differential fluid I noticed what looks to me like the input shaft seal on the passenger side has been leaking for awhile.

Does it look like I am correct with my assumption?

I found a few DIYs for this seal, and would like to do it without having to remove the differential. But the only DIY I found for doing this in the car was for an e46. Do you guys think I can do it in the e90 without removing the diff from the car?

I'm assuming this is the only part I need, along with fluid of course.
https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-...FdgPgQodl2UBfg

It was raining earlier so that's why the drain/fill bolts look wet.

[Lexustbs]

those are the outputs not inputs. both of my output seals were leaking. The dealer replaced them at a cost of $650 including labor, seals and diff oil change. They had to drop the axles and the rear section exhaust. Swapping the seals is not just a in and out job as everything has to line up and the seal has to go in the correct amount. Good luck

[deansbimmer]

You don't need to remove the diff. The seals are contained in the carrier flange. After you remove the axles and diff output shafts you can remove the carrier flanges and replace the seals on the bench. Just don't mix up the shims. Best to complete one side at a time. There are correct orientations for various parts so it's best to either know what you're doing or pay very close attention to the job with no distractions.

[HighlyMedicated]

Tech overfilled my differential at 1200 service as well, saw spot on ground near rear so gonna go back to get it fixed. Luckily under warranty or should be i didn't do anything lol only 2800 miles! Fellow tech at diff dealership noticed while fixing rattle on exhaust. Close one indeed, no sensor for that fluid or is there?

[dparm]

Originally Posted by HighlyMedicated

Tech overfilled my differential at 1200 service as well, saw spot on ground near rear so gonna go back to get it fixed. Luckily under warranty or should be i didn't do anything lol only 2800 miles! Fellow tech at diff dealership noticed while fixing rattle on exhaust. Close one indeed, no sensor for that fluid or is there?

There's no sensor in the diff for fluid level. I don't even know if there's a temp sensor in it.

[deansbimmer]

Originally Posted by dparm

There's no sensor in the diff for fluid level. I don't even know if there's a temp sensor in it.

No sensors of any kind in the pumpkin.