DEFECT #1 - POWER TRAIN: AXLE ASSEMBLY

Description
The differential oil of the transaxle is lost over time due to evaporation.  Low oil levels cause premature bearing and gear wear and eventual failure of the differential.

Consequence
In the event of failure, the vehicle's drive wheels couldlose power.  In extreme circumstances, the front wheels lock, causing rapiddeceleration resulting in possible loss of vehicle control and an accident.

Corrective Action
Drain and replace the differential gear oil with oil having higher performance characteristics.

Notes
System: power train.vehicle description: passenger cars with automatic 3-speed transmissions.