Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2003 Pontiac Aztek FWDFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Section 17 (Drive Axles)
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Chevrolet Corvette and 2002 Chevrolet Corvette. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Description & Operation
- Axle Ratio & Identification
- Lubrication
- Trouble Shooting
- Removal & Installation
- Overhaul
- Differential Case
- Notes
- Disassembly
- Cleaning Differential Housing
- Inspecting Differential Case
- Removing Drive Pinion Cartridge
- Installing Drive Pinion
- Selecting Drive Pinion Shim
- Disassembling Ring Gear & Differential Housing
- Reassembling Ring Gear and Differential Housing
- Installing & Adjusting Differential Side Bearings
- Reassembling Differential
- Differential Case
- Torque Specifications
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.