Lexus Differential FAQ
Lexus Differential
Attached to your transmission (in FWD cars) and is in the center of the drive axle in RWD cars. 4WD/AWD vehicles will have differentials in the front and rear, as well as a center differential and/or transfer case.
Service Interval: 12k-30k, some vehicles, never (inspect only)
Service Interval varies greatly depending on the type of driving you do. Under extreme conditions, some vehicles actually call for every 12k miles, while under normal driving conditions, some never suggest fluid replacement. Some FWD vehicles include the differential fluid as part of the transaxle fluid. To inspect, check the fluid level. Breakdown of the fluid may not be apparent, but if the fluid is notably dirty, it should be replaced.
Why do we replace/service:
Similar to engine oil, differential gear oil breaks down over time. It is under high stress and shear loads. As it breaks down, it allows more contact between the metal gears inside the differential. This leads to small metal particles to wear and will wear the gears more and more as time goes on.
What happens if we don’t service:
If services are not kept up with, differentials will wear prematurely. This leads to excess gear noise and will eventually lead to catastrophic failure.
General Recommendations:
Although some manufacturers do not suggest replacement ever, a differential fluid replacement may be cheap insurance to protect a somewhat pricey part. Follow your Lexus manufacturers recommendations for fluid weight and pay attention – some require additives such as for limited slip differentials, while others may require synthetic gear oil.
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