Owners of vehicles with rear, front, or all-wheel-drive like cars, trucks, and SUVs have probably been asked if they want a differential fluid change when they visit service shops. But, it’s something we don’t hear that often.

There’s a regular engine oil change which is very important. Then there’s the radiator fluid that you have to check regularly and maintain, as well. But what is a differential fluid exchange? Is it really necessary? What is it for?

I still don’t get it. What is a differential?

When you make a turn, the inside wheels travel a shorter distance compared to the outside wheels. If all the wheels spin at the same speed while turning, one tire will drag or spin. Your car’s differential prevents this from happening and it makes sure that your wheels move independently every time you drive through corners and turns. It allows your wheels to turn at different speeds and maintain ideal traction.

So: a differential is a part of your vehicle’s rear and front axle assembly that makes up for the difference in distance that the outside wheels and the inside wheels travel when your vehicle turns or drives through corners.

Are differential fluid exchanges necessary?

Yes. Very. Most manufacturers recommend that the differential fluid be exchanged every 50,000 kms, but it depends entirely on the make and model of your vehicle.

Changing this fluid is just as important as changing your engine’s oil, and for the same reason. Metal-to-metal contact wears down surfaces and creates heat from friction, which inevitably weakens the gears and leads to failure.

To keep the differentials in their optimum operating condition, it needs to have proper lubrication. This can be achieved by following the recommended differential fluid change schedule set by the manufacturers.

What happens if you don’t exchange the differential fluid?

Differentials deal with moving parts that involve metal-to-metal contact that produces heat from friction. That said, this contact can also wear down its surfaces and eventually weaken its gears that can lead to failure.

Differentials operating in extremely high temperatures can also lead to thermal breakdown of the differential fluid which could result in deposit formation and loss of lubrication. When this happens, its gear will grind leaving behind metal shavings and other waste.

Metal shavings due to wear can cause the gears to fail even when new fluid is put in, so taking some time to remove the cover and thoroughly clean the inside of the differential is important.

Where is the differential fluid located?

Owners of rear-wheel-drive cars will find that their differential fluid is located at the rear of the car, which is why a mechanic will recommend having the rear end checked or having the rear end fluid changed. Front-wheel-drive cars will have the differential in the front of the car.

How often should I exchange front and rear differential fluid?

The short answer is: however often the manufacturer of your vehicle recommends. However, If your vehicle is being used in extreme operations, its differential fluid exchange should be more frequent. Like when you often use your vehicle to tow at wide-open throttle or when you drive frequently in extreme temperatures.

If you’re interested in arranging a differential fluid exchange service for your vehicle, please click the button below. Depending on current conditions, traditional services may not be available so we’ll contact you to discuss how we can best serve your needs. Thank you in advance for your understanding and patience.

For those interested in understanding how a differential works, please enjoy this third-party educational video:

Please Note: The details of this article were accurate at the time it was written. Manufacturers may change the details of any vehicle’s specifications, at any time, without notice.