Upon inspection, a transaxle shows signs of fluid leaks; what could be a common cause?

A common cause of fluid leaks in a transaxle is indeed worn seals. Seals can deteriorate over time due to heat, friction, and exposure to transmission fluid, which leads to leaks. When these seals lose their integrity, they can no longer effectively prevent fluid from escaping.

Improper assembly is another significant factor that can lead to fluid leaks. If a transaxle is not assembled correctly, it may result in misalignments or inadequate sealing between components. This can create gaps where fluid can leak out.

Since both worn seals and improper assembly can independently result in fluid leaks, indicating that both conditions may be contributing factors captures the full spectrum of potential issues. Thus, considering these two causes together provides a comprehensive understanding of the problem at hand.