What does differential fluid do for a car?
In order to last, they need to be properly lubricated. Every front or rear axle is filled with a special oil (also called differential fluid, or gear oil) that takes care of this. The differential fluid lubricates the gears, bearings and other internal parts, and provides cooling to these components as well.
What kind of fluid does a front axle have?
Every front or rear axle is filled with a special oil (also called differential fluid, or gear oil) that takes care of this. The differential fluid lubricates the gears, bearings and other internal parts, and provides cooling to these components as well.
How often should I replace my differential fluid?
Replacing your differential/axle fluid regularly will ensure that the fluid never deteriorates to the point where your axle is becoming damaged. With proper maintenance, most drivers can expect their front and rear axles to outlast their vehicle!
What’s the difference between a differential and a diff?
Differential is a term commonly used when referring to your front or rear axle; you may have even heard them called “diffs” for short. The correct usage of the word “differential” actually describes one of the parts inside the axle – not the whole axle itself – but somehow the not-quite-correct name has stuck, so we’ll use it here too.
How do you check front differential fluid?
Check the level of fluid by placing a finger into the hole. The fluid should be level with the bottom of the check hole. Place a finger into the hole to get a bit of fluid. The color should be light tan. If it is a different color, the differential fluid needs to be changed.
When do you check front differential fluid?
If your vehicle has a transaxle and front and rear differentials, then the front differential fluid may need to be changed a lot sooner than 25,000 miles. In fact, you may be looking at changing it every 15,000 to 20,000 miles .
How often should I change front diff fluid?
If your vehicle has a transaxle and front and rear differentials, then the front differential fluid may need to be changed a lot sooner than 25,000 miles . In fact, you may be looking at changing it every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. During the fluid changing process, you will need to have the transaxle replaced as well.
What type of differential fluid should I use?
Designations for differential fluid may vary between different countries, though in the US the American Petroleum Institute (API) refers to them by gear lubricant (GL) numbers. Most differentials tend to use GL-4 or GL-5 differential fluid.