Men's Clothing

The Best Automotive Replacement Main Seals

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Our picks are based on Amazon bestseller rankings, verified customer ratings, and product availability. We update our recommendations regularly to ensure accuracy.

Ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly relies on every component performing optimally, and the main seal is no exception. A properly functioning main seal prevents vital fluids from leaking out, protecting your engine and transmission from damage. Choosing the right replacement seal is crucial for long-term reliability and performance.

No. 1
Dorman 635-518 Engine Rear Main Seal Cover
  • Direct replacement - this rear main seal cover kit matches the factory design, and includes a new gasket, installation hardware, and an updated seal design for superior leak prevention
  • Durable construction - the timing cover in this kit is made of die-cast aluminum for a leak-free fit and durability
  • Convenient solution - this kit includes a new gasket and installation hardware for a complete repair
  • Quality tested - this part has undergone extensive testing to ensure a quality fit and long service life
  • Ensure fit - to make sure this part fits your exact vehicle, input your make, model and trim level into the garage tool
  • Please check the “Amazon Confirmed Fit” bar at the top of this page before buying product to ensure this product works for your vehicle. If the “Amazon Confirmed Fit” bar has an “i” in a blue circle, this product has additional notes. Please...
No. 2
Ford Racing M-6701-B302 Rear Main Seal for 5.0L Engine
  • Ford Racing a trusted industry leader
  • Backed by manufacturer's Warranty
  • Great Performance
  • Enhance your vehicle
  • Fast Shipping
No. 3
A-Premium Engine Rear Main Seal Cover Kit [OHV 4.8 5.3 5.7 6.0 6.2 7.0L]
  • [Vehicle Fitment-1]: ①Compatible with Chevrolet Avalanche 02-13 // Camaro 98-15 // Caprice 11-12 // Colorado 09-12 // Corvette 97-12 // Express 1500 Van 03-14 // Express 2500 Van 03-20 // Express 3500 Van 03-20 // Express 4500 Van 09-20 // Impala...
  • [Vehicle Fitment-2]: ②fits for Chevy Silverado 2500 99-04, Silverado 2500 HD 0120-, Silverado 2500 HD Classic 07 // Silverado 3500 01-06, Silverado 3500 Classic 2007, Silverado 3500 HD 07-20 // SSR 03-06 // Suburban 18-20 // Suburban...
  • [Vehicle Fitment-3]: ④fits for GMC Savana 1500 Van 03-14 // Savana 2500 Van 03-20 // Savana 3500 Van 03- // Savana 4500 09- // Sierra 150 99-13 // Sierra 1500 Classic 2007 // Sierra 1500 HD 01-06 // Sierra 1500 HD Classic 07 // Sierra...
  • [Vehicle Fitment-4]: ⑤fits for Hummer H2 2003-2009 // H3 2008-2010 // H3T 2009-2010 ⑥fits for Isuzu NPR 2003-2016 // NPR-HD 2003-2016 ⑦fits for Pontiac Pontiac 1998-2002 // G8 2008-2009 // Grand Prix 2005-2008 // GTO 2004-2006 ⑧fits for Saab 9-7X...
  • [Specifications]: Reference Number: ‎635-518, 12633579, 12639250, 12615666, 12598301, 500323RSH, SK635518, 8-12572-014-0, 8-12598-301-0, 8-12614-813-0, 8-12633-579-0, 8-12639-250-0 ①Inside Diameter (in): 2.7 in; ②Length (In): 10 in; ③Width (in...
No. 4
LABLT 635-518 Rear Main Seal Kit 4.8 5.3 6.0 6.2 Replacement for 12633579 12639250
  • Manufacturer part number: 635-518
  • Made of die-cast aluminum, no leakage, long service life
  • The part has been extensively tested to ensure quality
  • Note: Please double-check that it is the part you need before purchasing
  • Package Includes: 1 x rear main seal kit
No. 5
Dorman 635-557 Engine Rear Main Seal Cover
  • Direct replacement - this rear main seal cover matches the fit and function of the original equipment cover for a trouble-free installation
  • Durable construction - this rear main seal cover is made of quality materials for a reliable fit and enduring service life
  • Convenient solution - get a quality repair solution without the hassle of buying original equipment
  • Quality tested - this part has undergone extensive testing to ensure a quality fit and long service life
  • Ensure fit - to make sure this part fits your exact vehicle, input your make, model and trim level into the garage tool
No. 6
RADHLBNIU Rear Main Seal Kit Compatible with Chevy Tahoe Suburban Silverado Express Avalanche Cadillac...
  • [FITMENT] Compatible with 2012-2013 Chevy Tahoe, 2012-2013 Chevy Suburban 1500, 2013 Chevy Silverado 1500, 2012 Chevy Express 1500, 2014 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD, 2014 Chevy Express 2500, 2012 2013 2014 2018 Chevy Express 3500, 2012 Chevy Avalanche...
  • [REPLACE PART NUMBER] 635-518, 12633579, 12639250.Please check the part number and fitment before placing order.
  • [DURABLE CONSTRUCTION] The rear main seal cover kit is made of die-cast aluminum for a leak-free fit and durability.
  • [FEATURE] The rear main seal cover kit includes a new gasket, installation hardware, and an updated seal design to ensures leak-free.
  • [QUALITY ASSURANCE] High quality and rigorous testing. Our rear main seal cover kit has undergone rigorous testing and inspecting to ensure all performance parameters meet the standard.
No. 7
National 100085 Engine Crankshaft Seal for Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Design type: springless; multi-lip
  • Temperature range: -100°F to 450°F / -73°C to 232°
  • Excellent dry running capabilities
  • Low coefficient of friction
  • Delivers quality and reliable performance for every type of repair
  • Material: Polytetrafluoroethylene
  • Design type: Spring loaded; multi-lip
  • Temperature range: Minus 100 degree Fahrenheit to 450 degree Fahrenheit
  • Provides excellent dry running capabilities, low coefficient of friction, and excellent resistance to chemicals
  • Resistant to hydrocarbon/oxygenate blends and provides superior performance
No. 8
Subaru Rear Main Seal for WRX STI Legacy Forester Impreza Outback Baja - 806786040 - Genuine OEM
  • Genuine Subaru Rear Main Seal for your 1990 and newer Subaru 806786040
  • 1993-2011 Subaru Impreza 2002-2014 Subaru WRX 2004-2017 Subaru WRX STi
  • 1998-2013 Subaru Forester
  • 1990-2012 Subaru Legacy 2000-2012 Subaru Outback
  • 2003-2006 Subaru Baja 1992-1997 Subaru SVX 2006-2008 Tribeca
No. 9
Dorman 635-786 Engine Rear Main Seal Cover
  • Direct replacement - this rear main seal cover matches the fit and function of the original equipment cover for a trouble-free installation
  • Durable construction - this rear main seal cover is made of quality materials for a reliable fit and enduring service life
  • Convenient solution - get a quality repair solution without the hassle of buying original equipment
  • Quality tested - this part has undergone extensive testing to ensure a quality fit and long service life
  • Ensure fit - Input your vehicle into the garage tool and check Confirmed Fit bar at the top of the page. If there is an “i” in a blue circle, additional verification is needed. Please hover over the "i" to verify fitment notes match your vehicle
No. 10
DNJ RM422 Rear Main Seal for 1986-2011 Ford, Land Rover, Mazda, Mercury Aerostar, B4000, Bronco II 2.9L-4.0L...
  • THIS IS BRAND NEW: DNJ® Rear Main Seal
  • FITS: 86-11 Ford, Mercury, Mazda, Land Rover 2.9L-4.0L V6 SOHC, OHV Naturally Aspirated
  • WARRANTY TYPE: 1 year or 12,000-mile DNJ® limited warranty.
  • DNJ Engine Components is a full line provider of Domestic & Japanese engine parts for cars and trucks.
  • We carefully selected DNJ Engine Components as the sole provider. DNJ has a 30+ year track record of quality, experience, and trust. It makes sense for us to carry a brand that would help us earn customer loyalty in the long run

Last update on 2026-09-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Automotive Replacement Main Seals

Understanding Main Seals

The main seal, often referred to as the rear main seal or front main seal depending on its location, is a critical component designed to prevent oil from leaking out of the engine or transmission at the crankshaft. When these seals wear out, oil can leak onto the clutch, flywheel, or exhaust system, leading to potential damage and safety hazards. Replacement is necessary when leaks are detected or as part of a preventative maintenance schedule.

Types of Main Seals

Main seals are typically made from materials like rubber (nitrile, viton) or PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). Rubber seals are common and cost-effective but can degrade over time due to heat and oil exposure. PTFE seals, often seen in one-piece designs, offer superior heat and chemical resistance and can provide a more durable seal, especially in high-performance applications. The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) often specifies a particular type, but aftermarket options may offer enhanced durability.

Key Features to Consider

When selecting a replacement seal, consider the material composition for durability and resistance to engine oil and heat. The seal's design, whether it's a traditional two-piece rubber seal or a modern one-piece lip seal, can impact installation and sealing effectiveness. Ensure the seal is compatible with your vehicle's specific make, model, and year. Some seals may come with installation tools or helpful guides, which can be beneficial for DIY repairs.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Replacing a main seal is often a labor-intensive job, typically requiring the engine or transmission to be removed. It's advisable to have this repair performed by a qualified mechanic unless you have significant automotive repair experience. After installation, monitor for any signs of leaks and check your oil levels regularly. Using the correct type and amount of engine oil, as specified by your vehicle manufacturer, will also help prolong the life of the new seal.

Comparison Tips

  • Material: Compare seals made from nitrile for general use versus Viton or PTFE for higher heat and oil resistance.
  • Design: Evaluate one-piece lip seals against traditional two-piece seals for potential differences in sealing performance and ease of installation.
  • Brand Reputation: Research brands known for producing reliable automotive components. Look for seals with good reviews regarding longevity and fitment.
  • Vehicle Specificity: Always confirm that the seal is designed for your exact vehicle's year, make, and model to ensure proper fit and function.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of a failing main seal?
Common signs include visible oil leaks around the rear or front of the engine or transmission, oil drips on the garage floor, and a burning oil smell if oil is leaking onto hot exhaust components. Low oil levels without obvious external leaks can also indicate an internal seal issue.
Can I drive with a leaking main seal?
Driving with a leaking main seal is not recommended as it can lead to significant engine or transmission damage. Continuous oil loss can cause overheating and lubrication failure. Furthermore, oil leaks can contaminate other components like the clutch or brakes, posing a safety risk.
How long does a main seal typically last?
The lifespan of a main seal varies depending on material quality, driving conditions, and maintenance. High-quality seals in moderate conditions can last for many years or tens of thousands of miles. However, they are considered wear items and will eventually need replacement.
What is the difference between a front and rear main seal?
The rear main seal is located at the back of the engine, between the engine block and the transmission, sealing the crankshaft's exit point. The front main seal is located at the opposite end of the crankshaft, typically behind the crankshaft pulley, sealing its exit from the engine block.
Is a one-piece or two-piece main seal better?
One-piece seals, often made of PTFE, are generally considered an upgrade over traditional two-piece rubber seals. They often offer better resistance to heat and chemicals and can provide a more consistent seal, reducing the risk of leaks.
Do I need special tools to replace a main seal?
Yes, specialized seal installation tools are often required to properly seat the new seal without damaging it. These tools ensure the seal is installed perfectly flat and at the correct depth. Some kits may include these tools, or they can be purchased separately.