Technical question

I don't know jack about automobiles and I purchased a 1996 suburban just recently. There appears to be some fluid around the rear axle cover (Big round cover on backside of axle, not sure of techinical name) . nothing leaking but a "wet" look and some fluid of some type splashed up onto the fuel tank (I think it was the fuel tank). Any indication of what this might be? Perhaps just a seal that is bad on that cover? How hard/easy a fix is it? Could it be an indicator of something worse?

THanks

The first thing to do is check the bolts and make sure they are tight. Not to tight, it is only a tin cover and you don’t want to break one off. The next thing you want to do is clean off the old wet oil to see if someone before you fixed it and left the oil behind. Then take it to a shop and have them check the oil in the rear end. I would be careful on who you have check the rear end gear oil. Pay the money and have a good shop do it. Dave