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Home » How-to » Transmissions & Drivetrains » Drive Axles & Differentials » How to Check Differential Oil Leaks and Replace Oil

How to Check Differential Oil Leaks and Replace Oil

for all vehicles ( View guide for your vehicle )
Parts needed:
Differential Gasket Gear Oil
Tools needed:
Drain Pan Mallet Hammer
(Show)
Estimated Costs:

DIY Costs
Est. $117.30 parts only Shop Costs
Est. $274.57 in parts and labor
Costs are based on averages for all vehicles.

Guide Steps

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1
 
Secure your vehicle on a level surface, making sure your car will not roll or lean when jacked up.
2
 
Using a floor jack, lift up the rear of your vehicle.
Jack lifting vehicle up by pinch weld
3
 
Secure the vehicle with jack stands on both sides for safety before starting any work. The pinch welds or the frame rails are the two best locations. Do not rely on the jack to hold the vehicle up while working.
4
 
Inspect the rear differential housing for leaks.
5
 
Remove the gear oil fill plug.
Gear oil fill plug
6
 
Clean the bottom of the differential cover to remove debris if not already done.
Rear differential cover installed
7
 
Place a drain pan under the rear differential. Loosen and remove all of the differential cover bolts, except for the top 2 or 3, and carefully pry the cover away from the housing to drain the oil.
8
 
Remove the top bolts and pull the cover off.
Rear differential cover removed
9
 
Thoroughly clean the mounting surfaces of the differential cover and housing
10
 
Apply sealant to the differential cover mounting surface. Place the new gasket on the cover.
11
 
Apply sealant to the differential housing mounting surface. Install the cover assembly and torque the bolts evenly to 25-35 ft. lbs.
Differential cover installed and tightened into place
12
 
Fill the housing with the manufacturer’s recommended gear oil until the oil has reached the bottom of the fill plug hole.
13
 
Tighten the fill plug to 20-30 ft. lbs.
14
 
Lower the vehicle to the ground and road test. Check the rear differential for leaks.
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