Differential Fluid Change (Tutorial)

Tools and Materials

Procedure

Make sure wheels are blocked.
Raise and support car making sure that it is as level as possible.
- NOTE: It is better to drain the fluid when it is warm so it flows easier.
Using 10mm allen wrench, loosen drain plug and allow diff to drain.
Wipe off excess oil from drain plug along with fine metal shavings. Remove old crush washer and install new washer.
After diff/trans is drained, reinstall drain plug.
Use 10mm allen wrench to remove fill plug.
Remove old crush washer and install new washer onto the fill plug.
- NOTE: To fill suction gun, I took off the top, pulled handle out of the gun and poured the oil into it. You could stick the hose into the bottle and suction it out but it wont pick up as much.
Using suction gun, fill diff/trans to lower level of fill plug and allow overflow of fluid to drain off.
Reinstall fill plug.
Double-check that plugs are snug (I don’t know the torque specs but be advised that aluminum can’t take too much torque so RTFB and/or be careful) and wipe off any excess oil.
Lower the car.
- NOTE: Since you have the car raised it is a good time to change the engine oil, check your tires for feathering, check your exhaust for leaks and bottoming, check your fuel lines for damage and anything else that may look unusual under your car.