A specific type of lubricant called differential fluid is used in the differential, a part of cars that converts engine power to the wheels.
It’s essential for lowering heat and friction in the differential, which supports the smooth operation of the gears.
Differential fluids are available in different varieties, such as gear oil for standard differentials and limited-slip differential fluids.
Top 7 Differential Fluid
Here is an article about cars Front Drive Fluid, rear differential fluid, Best Heavy Duty differential fluid, Best Synthetic differential fluid and more.
Best overall
Genuine GM 19352759 DEXRON Gear Fluid - 1 Quart , Black
PROS
- Affordable
- Easy to change the fluid
CONS
- Packaging may vary
- Differentials might get noisy
The Genuine GM 19352759 DEXRON Gear Fluid in the 1-quart container is specifically designed for use in various General Motors vehicles. This type of gear fluid is formulated to meet the requirements of GM vehicles, providing proper lubrication and protection for their transmission systems.
The DEXRON specification ensures that it meets the necessary standards set by GM for optimal performance and longevity of the vehicle’s transmission components.
Best Heavy Duty
Lucas Oil 10042 Heavy Duty High Performance SAE 85W-140 Gear Oil - 1 Quart
PROS
- Works great on a chain
- Doesn't fling off a lot
- Fast shipping
- Great price
CONS
- Takes a little time to burn up
The Lucas Oil 10042 Heavy Duty High Performance SAE 85W-140 Gear Oil is packaged in a 1-quart container. It’s formulated to be a heavy-duty gear oil, specifically designed to meet the demands of high-performance applications. This particular oil, with its SAE 85W-140 viscosity rating, is suitable for use in various gear systems, providing robust protection and lubrication under heavy loads and in extreme conditions.
Best Front Drive Fluid
Maxima 40-45916 SXS Synthetic Front Drive Fluid 16 oz Bottle, Single
PROS
- Meets oem specs
- Easy to apply
- Fast shipping
- Durable fluid
CONS
- Not for use in API GL-5
The Maxima 40-45916 SXS Synthetic Front Drive Fluid comes in a single 16 oz bottle. This synthetic fluid is specially designed for front drive systems, catering to the needs of various off-road and high-performance vehicles.
It’s formulated to provide optimal lubrication and protection for front drive components, ensuring smooth operation and durability under demanding conditions.
Best Synthetic Gear Oil
Valvoline SynPower SAE 75W-90 Full Synthetic Gear Oil 1 QT (Pack of 2)
PROS
- Good quality product
- Very fast shipping
- Great packaging
- Works for API GL-5 or API GL-4 specified
CONS
- Pouring may be a little difficult
The Valvoline SynPower SAE 75W-90 Full Synthetic Gear Oil comes in a pack containing two 1-quart bottles. This gear oil is a full synthetic formula designed to meet the demands of various gear systems. With its SAE 75W-90 viscosity rating, it offers excellent protection, lubrication, and performance across a range of temperatures, contributing to smoother gear operation and enhanced durability for your vehicle’s components.
Best Differential Gear Repair
Bar's Leaks Axle and Differential Gear Repair
PROS
- Differential noise gone
- Easy to apply
- Worth the price
- Thick like treacle and is made for leaking seals
CONS
- Not very helpful on stopping excavator drive motor leak
Bar’s Leaks Axle and Differential Gear Repair oil. This product is designed to address leaks and minor issues in axle and differential gears, helping to stop leaks and reduce friction in these components. It’s formulated to be an easy-to-use solution for common problems encountered in these parts of the vehicle.
Best High Performance Gear Oil
Royal Purple 01300 Max Gear 75W-90 High Performance Synthetic Automotive Gear Oil , 1 Quart (32 Ounces)
PROS
- High quality full synthetic lubricant
- Makes less mess
- You get what you pay for
CONS
- Shipping charge is high
The Royal Purple 01300 Max Gear 75W-90 High Performance Synthetic Automotive Gear Oil is available in a 1-quart container, equivalent to 32 ounces. This synthetic gear oil is engineered for high performance and is designed to meet the demands of automotive gear systems. With its 75W-90 viscosity rating, it offers excellent protection, reducing friction and providing enhanced performance for various vehicle gear systems.
Best Synthetic Gear Lubricant
Mobil1 1043611 Full Synthetic Gear Lubricant, 75W-90 Quart 6 PK
PROS
- Great value for money
- Good packaging
- Fast shipping
- Easy to apply
- Easy to use in the transfer case
CONS
- none found
The Mobil 1 1043611 Full Synthetic Gear Lubricant comes in a package containing six quarts of 75W-90 gear oil. This full synthetic lubricant is specifically designed to provide exceptional protection and performance for gear systems in vehicles. The 75W-90 viscosity rating ensures proper lubrication across a range of temperatures, contributing to smoother gear operation and improved durability for your vehicle’s gears.
A Comprehensive Guide to Changing Rear Differential Fluid
Maintaining your vehicle’s differential system is crucial for optimal performance, and one key aspect is changing the differential fluid. In this detailed guide, inspired by Chrisfix’s tutorial, we’ll walk through the step-by-step process of changing rear differential fluid.
Understanding the Rear Differential
The rear differential is responsible for transferring power from the drive shaft to the rear wheels. Proper lubrication with the right fluid ensures smooth operation, reduces friction, and prevents excessive heat buildup.
Tools Required
Before you start, gather the essential tools and supplies:
Ratchet, extension, and appropriate socket
Screwdriver (flathead)
Gasket or RTV (for creating a gasket)
Plastic scraper
Brake cleaner
Oil catch can
Torque wrench
Gear oil suitable for your vehicle
Pump (if needed for limited slip differentials)
Limited slip additive (if applicable)
Step-by-Step Procedure
Locate the Filler Plug: Identify and ensure you can unscrew the filler plug easily. This step is crucial to avoid complications during refilling.
Preparation and Fluid Level Check: Confirm the fluid level by inserting a finger into the differential. Re-screw the filler plug to prevent contamination during the process.
Drain the Old Fluid: Position an oil catch can beneath the differential. Gradually unfasten the bolts securing the differential cover, starting from the top bolts and leaving the middle one for last. Use a screwdriver to gently pry the cover, allowing controlled drainage.
Cleaning Surfaces: Thoroughly clean the differential cover and the mating surface on the differential, ensuring they’re free from old gasket material and debris.
Gasket Application (If Needed): Apply an even bead of RTV around the differential’s bolt holes if using it as a gasket. Allow it to set for 15 minutes before carefully placing the cover back on and hand-tightening the bolts to compress the gasket.
Torquing and Finalizing: Gradually torque the bolts in a star pattern or tighten them until observing a slight protrusion of the RTV. After an hour, torque the bolts to the specified foot-pounds.
Refilling with New Fluid: Use a pump to fill the differential with the appropriate gear oil until it starts seeping out of the filler hole. Seal the filler plug with the recommended torque setting.
Final Checks: Inspect for leaks, ensuring a proper seal, and clean any excess fluid around the differential.
FAQ's
How often to change differential fluid?
The frequency of changing differential fluid varies based on the vehicle and manufacturer’s recommendations. Typically, it’s advised to change it every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or as specified in your owner’s manual.
How to change differential fluid?
Changing the differential fluid involves locating the differential drain and fill plugs, draining the old fluid, and refilling it with the appropriate new fluid to the recommended level. This process often requires a wrench, a drain pan, and the correct type of differential fluid.
How to check differential fluid?
To check the differential fluid, locate the fill plug on the differential housing, remove it, and inspect the fluid level. It should be at the proper level, and the fluid should appear clean and translucent, not gritty or contaminated.
What is rear differential fluid?
Rear differential fluid is the specialized lubricant used specifically in the rear differential of vehicles. It serves the same purpose as regular differential fluid, lubricating and reducing friction in the rear differential gears.
When to change differential fluid?
As mentioned earlier, changing differential fluid is typically recommended every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, but it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines or any specific recommendations for your vehicle.
How often to change rear differential fluid?
The frequency of changing rear differential fluid aligns with the general guidelines for differential fluid change, roughly every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or as per your vehicle’s specifications.
How often should you change differential fluid?
The frequency of changing differential fluid is typically every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, but this can vary. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual or consult a mechanic for specific guidance.
How often should differential fluid be changed?
Following manufacturer recommendations, differential fluid should generally be changed every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or according to your vehicle’s specifications.
How often change differential fluid?
Changing differential fluid typically occurs every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, but exact intervals depend on the vehicle and manufacturer’s guidelines.