- Step 1: Secure the vehicle on jack stands or ramps. ...
- Step 2: Allow time for the gear oil to completely drain. ...
- Step 3: Locate and remove the gear oil fill bolt.
- Step 4: Use a pump to slowly add the recommended type of gear oil to the differential.
Can you change differential fluid yourself?
Changing the fluid in a differential is almost as easy as changing the oil in the engine. ... Carefully remove the drain plug and drain the fluid into a pan. Replace the drain plug. Fill the differential housing with fluid via a hose or pump until fluid pours out of the fill hole.
What happens if you run out of differential fluid?
The heavy-duty automobile fluid works under high pressure to ensure that all the gears, clutch packs, and bearings are continuously oiled, keeping all the differentials working smoothly and safely. If the gear oil runs out or gets dirty or water contaminated, the metal components can end up permanently damaged .
Is it easy to change rear differential fluid?
Changing the fluid in a differential is almost as easy as changing the oil in the engine . However, the process can differ between vehicles since some differentials only have two plugs — one for filling the fluid and another for draining it – while other vehicles require you to remove the housing cover.
What kind of fluid do you put in a rear differential?
There are two types of differential fluid. One is mineral oil , which is a natural, crude oil-based fluid. The other is synthetic differential fluid, which is created in a lab.
How much does it cost to change differential fluid?
When changing the differential fluid, the overall differential fluid change cost averages between $80 -$150 for the rear and $70 to $130 for the front change, coming in at a total price of between $150-$280 for the differential fluid change cost.
Can you drive with a bad differential?
Technically, you can drive with a bad differential, but it is not wise . The problem may get worse, to the point where it leaves you stranded somewhere. It can also cause damage to other surrounding components. It is smartest and safest not to drive with a bad differential.
How long does it take to change rear differential fluid?
This service usually takes about 10 minutes per differential .
Can you drive with no differential fluid?
Also a lack of lubrication in the bearings that hold all the gears in place, which again, wear and heat. Keep it going very long and you can cause severe damage. You’re likely to notice a noise if you’re conscientious at all.
How often should you change front and rear 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.
Is differential oil the same as transmission fluid?
In a manual transmission setup, sometimes. Differentials use gear oil/fluid . A manual transmission also uses gear oil but the viscosity may be a bit different. In an automatic transmission, definitely not; the fluid is much thinner and is called ATF – automatic transmission fluid.
How long does differential fluid last?
Usually, differential fluid is changed after every 30k to 60k miles driven . This is a tough job, so must be handled by an expert technician. Only an experienced mechanic can properly wipe out the old different fluid from your vehicle’s drive-train.
How is differential fluid level checked?
Differential Fluid Change Cost
The fluid itself can cost between $30 and $80, and labor will run between $40 and $70. All together, you’re looking at somewhere in the range of $70 to $150 to change your differential fluid depending on your vehicle, where you take it, and how much differential fluid it needs.
What happens if you don’t change rear differential fluid?
If this fluid isn’t changed in the manufacturer-prescribed intervals, then it can get dirty and thick , which could damage the differential over time.
Is differential fluid change necessary?
Most car manufacturers recommend that you perform a differential fluid change every 30,000 to 60,000 miles . Like many of the car’s oil, fluid, and parts, the differential fluid also gets contaminated over time and breaks down because of heat. If it is left too long and neglected, the fluid may start to run low.
How much should a rear differential service cost?
When changing the differential fluid, the overall differential fluid change cost averages between $80-$150 for the rear and $70 to $130 for the front change, coming in at a total price of between $150-$280 for the differential fluid change cost.
