How To Check Rear Differential Fluid In 2023

How to Change Rear Differential Fluid (Summary, Quick Version) YouTube from www.youtube.com

If you own a car, it's essential to know how to check the rear differential fluid. The rear differential is a critical component in the car's drive train, and it's responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. The differential fluid lubricates the gears and bearings inside the differential, preventing wear and tear and ensuring the proper functioning of the system. In this article, we'll show you how to check the rear differential fluid in your car in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Park Your Car on a Flat Surface

Before you start checking the rear differential fluid, make sure your car is parked on a flat surface. This will ensure that the car is level, and the fluid is distributed evenly inside the differential. If you park the car on an incline, the fluid may pool on one side of the differential, giving you an inaccurate reading.

Step 2: Locate the Rear Differential

The rear differential is located at the back of the car, between the two rear wheels. It's a large, metal housing that contains the gears and bearings of the differential. The differential is usually labeled, and you can find it in your car's owner's manual if you're unsure where it is.

Step 3: Remove the Fill Plug

Once you've located the rear differential, you need to remove the fill plug. The fill plug is usually located on the side of the differential, and it's a small bolt that can be removed with a socket wrench. Make sure you have a catch basin ready to catch any fluid that may spill out when you remove the plug.

Step 4: Check the Fluid Level

With the fill plug removed, you can now check the fluid level in the differential. Insert your finger into the fill hole and check if the fluid level is up to the bottom of the hole. If you can't feel any fluid, it means that the fluid level is low, and you need to add more fluid.

Step 5: Add More Fluid

If the fluid level is low, you need to add more fluid to the differential. You can do this by using a hand pump or a funnel to pour the fluid into the fill hole. Make sure you use the right type of differential fluid for your car, which you can find in your car's owner's manual.

Step 6: Reinstall the Fill Plug

Once you've added enough fluid, you need to reinstall the fill plug. Make sure you tighten it securely, but don't over-tighten it, as this can damage the threads. You can use a torque wrench to ensure that the bolt is tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.

Conclusion

Checking the rear differential fluid is a simple process that you can do yourself with just a few basic tools. It's essential to check the fluid level regularly, as low fluid levels can lead to premature wear and tear of the differential, which can be costly to repair. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your car's rear differential is functioning correctly, and your car is running smoothly.