How do you change front and rear differential fluid?
How do change a vehicle’s differential fluid?
- Lift the vehicle with a jack and place it on jack stands.
- Locate the front or rear differential and its corresponding fill and drain plugs.
- Remove the fill plug first to ensure that it’s not seized on there.
- Carefully remove the drain plug and drain the fluid into a pan.
Do you need to change front and rear differential fluid?
Otherwise, the front differential and rear differential can use the same type of oil if there is no transaxle. Differential fluid changes need to be made periodically for both the front and rear differentials. This is the same concept as when you need to change your engine oil.
What kind of oil does a rear differential use?
How often you need to change your differential fluid varies for each specific vehicle so be sure to check your owner’s manual. Rear differential fluid or oil commonly uses conventional oil SAE 90. For a front differential which is built in together with the manual transaxle, it commonly uses full synthetic oil SAE 75W-85.
How much does it cost to fill up rear differential oil?
The cost of the fluid is about $30 to $50 and labor costs will run you between $30 and $80 (depending on the car brand and model). To fill up the rear differential oil, you need approx. 2.5 – 3.5 liters oil (again dependent on the car brand/model).
How to replace front differential fluid in BMW X5?
To replace the fluid, use a 14mm Allen bit to remove the oil fill plug (green arrow). Front Differential: Next, using a 14mm Allen bit, remove the differential oil drain plug (green arrow). Drain the oil into suitable container. The container should have a two-liter capacity.
Why change rear differential fluid?
In most applications, the fluid in your rear differential should be replaced every 12,000 to 50,000 miles to ensure the gears within are properly lubricated. Replacing differential fluid at regular intervals will prolong the lifespan of the vehicle.
How much does it cost to replace rear differential fluid?
To change the differential fluid, it will commonly be in the $70 to $150 range, depending on the mechanic you choose and the oil they use. TrailTransmission.com says a good rule of thumb is to budget at least $1,500 for a brand new rear differential or about $700 to $1,200 to rebuild one.
When should you change your differential fluid?
Most manufacturers recommend that the differential fluid be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. It is a messy job, and should be done by a licensed mechanic.
How do you change differential fluid?
Differential fluid can be changed in various ways depending on the vehicle as well as the tools the repair shop has on hand to drain and refill the fluid. Some of the more modern shops will possibly own an extractor that will not only remove the old fluid but will also refill with new fluid.