YACT: Is the Rear Engine Seal part of a car's drivetrain?

[tallest1]

I know ATOT ain't CarTalk but I figure theres a few car experts around.

Long story short, I got an awesome deal on a 96 Volvo 850 GLE ($2800) and even a limited warranty (30 day drivetrain) however, after having a mechanic look at the car, its been discovered that the rear engine seal for the Volvo needs replacing (not unusual for Volvos). The part costs only $30 but labor would be somewhere around $500. I KNOW the dealer is gonna argue that its out of their hands, so I ask A) is the Rear Engine Seal part of the drivetrain? and B) how can I make sure they don't sneak their way out of fixing it?

 

[iamwiz82]

Is it the rear main seal? Having done one, I say if it's not leaking like a sieve just leave it alone. What a PITA it is.

That is part of the drivetrain. Engine, transmission, and axle all are.

 

[arcenite]

I believe the drivetrain is what connects the motor to the driving wheels. Unless you also have a powertrain warranty, I doubt it.

Bill

 

[bernse]

You've got an argument, but I've seen warranties specifically say seals/gasket failures are not covered.

If your warranty does *not* rule them out, you've got a decent shot, IMHO. If the fine print does not rule it out and he balks, tell him you'll not let it drop and seek "legal" counsel.
I think that the job could easily be more than $600. Rear seals are never an easy job.