Thank you so much for this video and your guide. My local dealer wanted $567 dollars for this same job that you did on this video, I was able to do it under 45 minutes and for about $60 dollars. God bless you and your family.
$567 LOL. and this is why the Stealerships will never get my business. I saw an invoice on my Toyota (from previous owner). The stealership charged $600 for an engine air filter, PCV, and cabin filter.
@@martincortez4956 I don't believe he is referring to the Trans fluid. Just the diff fluid and the transfer case fluid or (Power transfer unit on AWD). 75w85 is the fluid for an AWD rav4 and you can easily use 75w90 fluid that is fully synthetic and it's like 1/3 of the cost. Ws atf fluid can be purchased on rock auto. Do not buy your fluids from the dealer!
i like how you always take so much pride in your work as you always clean extra fluid up right away. We need more people like yourself AMD to work on our Toyota cars and trucks
What about checking the breathers on Toyota Transfer Cases and Differentials. Where are they located? When I worked as a diesel truck mechanic (retired now) when doing a regular engine oil change and service, you always checked the Transmission and Differential breathers to make sure they were open and not plugged up with dirt. A plugged breather will allow the unit to build up pressure (from the heat) and push oil out a seal. I've seen guys change a leaking Wheel or Pinion Seal only to have it leak again because the breather was plugged. Also when servicing drive train components, the vehicle must be level so that the fill plugs work correctly. A vehicle that has one end up on jack stands is likely going to give you an incorrect reading on the amount of oil you installed. Not everybody has a vehicle lift in their garage. Thank you for taking the time to make these videos. There is a lot of information available and you do a great job explaining everything. Best regards Gerald
Glad you mentioned the warning about the “smell”. Differential fluid can be an extremely repulsive smell to some people and lingers for a long time if spilled… Not like I know first-hand or anything 😊
I spilled some used differential fluid in my car one time. It stank until I got rid of the car 6 months later.... Definitely not related to the smell... no.... nope, not at all.
I called my local Toyota Dealer for a quote on my 2019 Rav4 Adventure (Torque Vectoring) just out of curiosity: $400 for rear diff, $300 for transfer case. OMG, are they freaking kidding!!! I'm doing both for about $100 in about an hour plus I'll have washers and the syringe for the next change. Thanks for the video AMD!
You do a great job teaching and providing correct fluids and torque values. Fantastic lighting and camera work as well. No questions unanswered as you anticipated all issues and helped prevent others. I wish all tutorials were as thorough.
One of the most important elements of your videos.. is going slowly and being calm. People that are new to working on cars can get nervous and rush thru things and make mistakes. Your thinking thru things is a great thing to teach. I many years ago did a clutch / press plate / pilot bearing on a 280 z datsun. I made the mistake that you covered. I forgot to loosten the fill plug until I had the transmission back in the car.. my mistake clearly. I ended up filling the gear lube thru the speedo cable hole with the back of the car up 5 feet.. a huge project. I told the owner... my girlfriend that the car is good.. but if we ever pull out the trans or clutch I need to address that fill plug. She never had anyone ever check the level in 15 years of ownership ☹
Your contribution to the DIY community is immeasurable. The amount of detail you show within each instructional video is far superior compared to anything I have seen out there. God bless you for the work you do. Subscribed. Do you mind clarifying for the 2017 Highlander XLE how many different crush washers/gaskets are there for the front, middle, and rear gear oil fill and drain plugs/bolts. I want to make sure I am ordering the right parts. Thank you in advance for your time.
AMD you have the best tutorial. I did mine 2019 Tundra with Schaffer moly synthetic gear lube. Incredibly increases MpG to 17 from 15. Dealer wanted $600.
Really enjoy your educational style of videos and recommending it to friends. At time mark 10:40, about cleanup from oil on the exhaust. I actually throw a plastic or silicone pad over the pipe before cracking open the fill and drains to keep oil off the pipe. Cleanup goes much easier.
Thank you for this video sir. I didn't realize how easy it was to change differential and transfer case. It looks easier than changing engine oil. My dealer was charging me 400 bucks to do this job.
I am so happy i found this video. I had my highlander transmission replaced and when i got it it started to leak transfer case fluid through the weep hole, only when i drove it. I took it back to the shop and the technician checked the fluid but i noticed the fluid gushed out and at that time i didnt know it should not gush out like that. They said there was no leak and it was a little normal to have som seepage in that area because they recently serviced it. But i noticed it kept leaking it was just small leak but i wasnt very happy about it. I started looking for answers and found this video, i remembered i saw a lot of oil comin out when that tech showed me that it was ok on oil level, and i went to check myself after watching this video, and sure it was overfilled with fluid. Thank you sir for this video it really helped me. I will look forward to see if it doesnt leak again, but im pretty sure it wont.
I went to my Lexus dealer and requested them to change these fluids at 32,000 miles on my 2020 Lexus IS300 AWD Sport. They said they don't do these fluid changes as they are lifetime. Never had a dealer turn down a request for service before. I may have to try this myself using this video as it sounds like it should be done. Thanks.
You can do it!! I used four ramps so the whole 2020 Rav 4 I own was high enough off the ground to work. I picked up the ramps of FB marketplace for $30 a set.
Thank you for making informative videos that you provide. Even though I may not try some of these procedures on my own ( too old: lol ) I still find that watching and learning how things are done is always a good thing thanks to people like you showing all of us how and spending your time creating them. Thanks again.
Cool. I have a 2006 matrix 4wd with 183k. I use a 24mm 12pt box end (fill plug) and a 24mm 1/2 drive socket (drain plug) for transfer case. I ground the chamfer off the end of socket so it grabs the low profile bolt head better. Very easy service with proper information you have given.
Back when I was married(!) I bought my wife a 2001 Sequoia. I changed the rear differential oil at 10,000 miles. The drained oil was dark gray and had lots of metal shavings in it. My next change was at 30,000 miles. It was much less discolored. At each differential oil change the oil looked cleaner and cleaner. I guess my last change was at 120,000 miles. That oil looked like I put it in the day before. It was that clean after 30,000 miles. I did all maintenance by the book and we never did have any problem with that vehicle which appears to be typical for a Toyota.
May i ask what other maintenance did you do on that vehicle? I'm asking because I'm new to DIY car work and I'm trying to learn as much as I can about taking care of a car.
I changed the differential fluid today in my wife’s Lexus. I crawled under from the rear as far as I could and used a mirror tilted toward the plugs to show me where to put the hex drive socket and also where to insert the fill hose into the fill hole. The mirror made it easy, without having to raise the vehicle.
Great tip on the taps with a hammer. My plugs were rusted quite a bit more than the ones in this video. I didn’t have penetrating fluid so I used some brake cleaner after using a #mall wire brush. Before doing these things I couldn’t budge the fill plug. Afterwards it was as easy as if the plug had already been loosened half a turn. My Highlander has 125,000 km on it. The dealership’s Service Assistant manager told me last year Toyota has no recommendation for when to change these fluids. I us3d 75W90 Royal Purple synthetic gear oil and a1.5 litre ( about a US quart and a half ) syringe type of fluid transfer pump. It worked flawlessly, no leaking no mess. The plugs look way bigger on here than they did when I changed the diff.
Very informative and explains why I was unable to find my daughters front diff drain/fill plugs in her AWD Sienna a few months ago!! (But I got her TC and rear Diff changed as well as the transmission) For those crush washers, we put the side with the crease towards the vehicle, smooth side on the plug.
Thanks Ahmed! I'm getting ready to change the rear diff fluid on our 2008 Highlander with 250,000 miles on it and wanted to make sure I watched you do it first! Being in Massachusetts, I've been underneath the vehicle recently to observe what things look like after all these New England winters - that diff is crusted over with rust! I'm so glad to have seen you tap the plugs with a hammer, great tip!! Thanks again for the effort you expend for all of us DIYers.
It took me 2 days to change my gear oil. It was due to weather (I have no garage!) and schedule. But I took my time, sprayed PB blaster on the plugs, tapped them with a hammer, chipped away tons of rust crust on the diff casing, vacuumed, air blasted, and took notes of other things that needed work in the near future. (Like, how many people in the snow belt trust that their spare tire hanger is going to last? I fear the tire flying off one day...) The gear oil was probably last changed over 75,000 miles ago - I really don't remember. It came out like medium maple syrup in color, not too dark, and it had minor metal flake in it. The drain plug magnet is almost 3/4" long and had a fair amount of metal sludge on it, but nothing worrisome at all. I was very pleased, especially after having to spend $4,000 earlier this year to replace the front differential after it failed. Keeping the vehicle on a flat surface to be sure the gear oil fill is accurate is not the easiest project to do in your driveway. 😜 I removed the spare tire so my shoulders could fit under there.
You saved my bacon with the hammer trick. Some penetrating oil overnight and some hammering on the front diff drain plug got it loose. I had tried a long cheater and even an impact without success previously. Last person to tighten it was the local Toyota tech. An Arizona 4Runner without a speck of rust.
This video was very helpful and this is definitely something anyone can do. A couple of tips based on my experience with this is: 1. If you are skinny you can do it without even jacking the car up. 2: No idea how he got a ratchet in there as I had to use a 1/2 inch drive ratchet for the 24mm socket and while I could get onto the bolt, I couldn't ratchet as the exhaust pipe was in the way even with a swivel head. I ended up just adding a bunch of extensions (I saw this in someone else's video showing how to do this) and that allowed the ratchet to be all the way back behind the black floor shield and gave it room to move without rubbing on anything. From back here you can also see much better 3: I ordered a fluid pump but got the wrong size for my container and had to improvise. Using a large fluid syringe it was also pretty easy to put it in (especially for the rear diff). 4: Mine took exactly what the manual states for a 19 Highlander - 0.8qts in the front and 0.5qts in the rear. 5: There is a random hole on the left side of the rear of the transfer case (appears to be for a stud of some sort?). Going in blind after having been out from under the car for awhile and with the refill bolt out, it is easy to confuse the two if you are just sticking your hand up there to feel for a hole. If you do make this mistake, the oil will just seep out right away from the stud hole and if you are using a pump it will likely make a big mess. The best way to get visibility is to go back behind the black floor shield as you can see the refill hole very well from there. Whether using a syringe with an extended hose or a pump, i would suggest you set it up and then pump from back there so you can see everything you are doing.
Hi Sean, can you please share video link for "I saw this in someone else's video showing how to do this"? I am having same issue with transfer case fill plug removal (Sienna 2017).
Your videos always impress me . Really great explanations for DIY and for people that may not do it but it’s good for them to know the process and all that’s involved . You and everyone at your shop are just incredible . You guys blow my mind
Just did the transfer case & front/rear diff service on my Dad's 2017 SR5 Crewmax 4WD Tundra last week! Ordered via that Ravenol Gear Oil kit. I reused the washers because it was the 1st time for this service but will replace for sure next time now that I know the part numbers. Thanks AMD.
My local dealer charges $450 for this as a “4 Wheel Drive Service.” Using this channel and others, I was able to do it for $75-including synthetic gear oil and new gaskets-on my 2005 Land Cruiser. Thanks you!
Lexus GS/IS/LS Sedans have a rear AWD transfer case that shares fluid with the trans. The trucks I believe have their own Fluid. Clean out your vents too. I had a front axle seal leak on my GS and it was because of a clogged vent. Similar setup to many trucks.
Interesting, my Lexus dealer told me the AWD LS transfer case is separate from the transmission. I just had it in for all the fluids changed. Front & rear dif's, transfer case and transmission. All for a low price of $867. And even a car wash. No wax. I think that would have put it over a thousand bucks. I wish I could work on my own cars.😣
@@Laggy200ms I did it in a few hours. It is not the most fun job and the fluid stinks. Toyota Fluids are probably over $200 of that price. The rear end fluid is extremely expensive. The transfer case is physically separate but the LS could be slightly different, I think the transfer case has a torsion setup whereas the GS/IS has an open differential with a lockup system. Looking it up - yes, the LS takes special, expensive fluid in the Xfer case - different from the V6 GS and IS.
On my 4Runner I replaced the factory transfer case drain plug with a magnetic one. The size is M18x1.5×12. I used a Dimple Motor Oil Magnet but there are a few others on the market.
Another nice and simple DIY instruction, complete with part numbers and torque specs. It would be nice to have some input on the breather valves, regarding any cleaning, testing for blockages/rust, or pre-emptive replacement since they are a common cause of oil seal leaks in the rust belt.
@@johnysky6066 Or maybe Toyotas don't need bigger magnets because they are manufactured with tight tolerances and produce fewer metal shavings during their lifespans?
I actually still find a fair amount of wear particles on my rear diff (2014 Highlander). Now granted my first change was at pretty close to 60,000 mi (I didn't know then to do it sooner). But after changing it and then checking it at almost 69,000 mi it is fairly dark and still as much wear particles as before, I was to put in much stronger magnetic plugs but at 5mm longer don't know if the will fit on both top and bottom for even more cleaning performance.
Even though I had watched your video before I forgot about the 'hammer tapping' trick. I tried to remove the fill plug on my 2016 Highlander's differential with a ratchet (no go) then an impact (again no go). I watched this video again and tried the 'hammer tapping' and both of those plugs came out SOOOOO easily with just a ratchet!! Thank you so much for the tip, you saved me a bunch of money! Now, I just have to find the fill plug on the transfer case LOL.
A simple ‘thank you’. The correct information from a highly qualified and respected source. Needless to say, as soon as I get OEM Washers I’ll be picking up the oil(s). Now onto your fluids video to determine what oil I need for my 2017 Tacoma SR5 4WD with limited slip….
Nice work brother keep up the good work I really like how you work and care about the car like it's yours I wish every mechanic like you thanks so much .
I changed the transfer case fluid and the rear differential fluid on my 2016 Toyota RAV4 yesterday. The car had 70K miles and the fluid had never been replaced before. Given that I had waited longer than the recommended interval, I expected the oil to be really nasty. Nope. It looked like it was almost new. The front transfer case was still a nice gold color and had almost zero crud on the magnet. The rear diff was a little darker fluid with a little more crud on the magnet. I'm certainly not going to do this again at just another 30K with the fluid and magnets looking this good after 70K. I'll probably give it at least another 70K.
Great video as usual! I unfortunately never had the rear differential and transfer case oil replaced on my 2014 RAV4 (87,000 miles). I'm debating whether or not to replace it now that I'm well past the recommended interval (AMD mentioned in another video that if your transmission fluid hasn't been replaced at the recommended interval, you shouldn't change it).
I think the flat side of the crush washer should sit against the bolt head rather than against the differential housing. But I've seen differing opinions about this. What do you think?
Great videos!! I’ve watched a few of your videos and this is my first comment. You always teach me at least a few things every video! I appreciate your honesty and as always, thanks for sharing your knowledge!
This is a great straight forward procedure for those tackling it and a refresher for those of us who only do it once every 2-3 years! Are the procedures for the AWD Torsen models any different?
First, thank you for all of your videos, I was able to solve my own issue with my 4Runner (below) but I also have a 2015 Tundra Platinum and need help based on something you mention to be aware of. You mention that the TUNDRA transfer case drain plug changed in SOME year models, 2014 and up, where the seal is built-in and the drain plug must be replaced and part obtained from a dealership. My problem is that of two dealerships that I have inquired with, NO ONE at the parts desk can answer my question thus far if my drain plug is one of those. My local dealer identified the correct part on their computer diagram in front of me but it must be ordered (a week to arrive, after selling me the wrong drain plug initially) but still told me that he cannot tell me whether or not the plug is of the type you mention with the built-in seal. My transfer case drain plug is one that sits flush (not a hex head) and it is driven by a 3/8" square socket drive extension. Are you able to tell if mine is one of those design changes? I do have my 4Runner for use, but my Tundra is on jack stands now until the new drain plug arrives, unless I use the old one which I am not inclined to do. When I removed my current drain plug and fluid, there was no washer on the plug.
best practice is to check the vent hoses/fittings to make certain they're clear. Obstructions in the vent path can make for pressure buildup and leaks.
@@rudysmachado5747 On top of each gear box, you'll find a fitting with either a tin cap that should free spin so any dirt inside will fall out, or there may be a hose coming off said fitting to a higher point on the body and a similar capped vent on the end.
Great review and helpful hints for the do it yourself person. I know you are very busy with your shop but it would be nice if you did a series of maintenance service for the third generation Tacoma. You really explain things very nicely. Thanks
Would you do a video on towing capacity breaking everything down from a mechanic's view , love your videos you don't discriminate you tell it as it is and are not afraid to tell us the good and the ugly.
Toyota's hex socket plugs are all 10mm, or so I'm told. A 10mm socket would not fit my Highlander. I cleaned the cavity thoroughly, but the 10mm socket would not engage fully, no matter how hard I pounded. A 3/8" hex socket (9.53mm) fit perfectly, however. Still, I noticed that it started to strip when I applied torque. I switched to a T55 TORX socket and applied 60 seconds of heat with a butane torch, and the plugs broke free with surprisingly little effort. I replaced the plugs with hex head M18-1.5 stainless magnetic plugs.
For the 24 mm plugs on landcruisers etc, I have a six point socket that I have ground the open face flat to eliminate the champher - lets it engage with the skinny plug a bit better.
Thank you for your videos! Will one can of the factory differential fluid (Toyota Gear Oil - 08885-02506 1 liter) cover both front transfer case and rear differential on a 2015 RX?
Thank you. Your teaching technic is very informative and clear. You should be a professor at a technical school/ university😁I’m sure the students will learn from you a lot! -Los. Keep up the good work.
I neglected to take note of the orientation of the crush washer gaskets on the fill and drain plugs for my 2005 highlander V6 3.3L. One side is rounded and the other side is flat. Which side is to be oriented toward the differential housing? Dealership parts dept. says flat side to the house but some auto forums I searched indicate the opposite.
'98 LS400. Most important thing for me was being sure I could remove the filler plug (very tight) before removing the drain. Had to order the exactly right gear oil (Miller's). Both Mobile and Lexus of NA advised that I not substitute a similar multi-viscosity product. Substitution for LS430 was OK. Probably shouldn't have done the job since the old oil even after 140K looked great and no debris at all on the magnet.
That front fluid was a little brown. Good job of changing it! Are there "vents" to be concerned about? I've been watchn u for yrs now, u should be an instructor if u ever get tired (or ur back hurts) from workn on cars! Dont know why it never crossed my mind. I dont even OWN a AWD & I enjoy ur videos! 😁
You, sir, are an inspiration. Your hard work, dedication, and attention to detail are 2nd to none. This is a great channel. What are your thoughts on the 2017 Lexus CT200h ? Thanks so much for your feedback.
Just did this on my 2014 Toyota Rav4 which has 75000 miles on it but the most difficult and time consuming part was taking those stubborn hex bolts off (certainly a couple taps didn't work for me lol... I live in Toronto so am not sure if the salt on the roads during the winter creates this condition)especially the fill-in plug which is so hard to get to that i almost gave up. The transfer case/gear oil didn't look too bad (light brownish) so i don't know if it was worth the hassle since it's synthetic. I had recently replaced the transmission fluid after watching your video and that seemed so much easier. I can take comfort knowing that I don't need to worry about it for some time now😄 and thank you🙏🏽
Hi, thank you for the video and information regarding the difference between an AWD versus 4WD. I have a 2021 Toyota Venza, and it has close to 55,000 miles on it. I learned early on (my father taught me basics of auto/car care before I can drive) to take care of my vehicles. So, at this level of miles on the vehicle, I need to change the transfer case fluid and rear differential. As you explained, I would expect or should expect the mechanic/auto technician to change the gaskets on the all the plugs (fill and drain). Nowadays, you cannot see the auto technician working on your car. Auto shops before (70s-80s) had viewing windows. I guess I have trust issues because I have had experience where auto shop has "burned" me so does speak. If I had a lift for my vehicle I would do it myself (but that's another wish) :) Thank you again.
Hey AMD, love your work thank you. A suggestion I work at night and listen to your recorded live stream. You can upload just a audio version of your live stream on podcast which will be very helpful in expanding your reach. I want this channel to grow. Thanks again 🙏.
This guy is an absolute legend! Thankyou for sharing your information once again. I have a quick question, is the Mobil 1 better than genuine toyota gear oil?
I got a 2017 Toyota Kluger (Highlander). Got a ner ner ner sound inside cabin at speed mostly 40km/h+ ....... thought wheel bearings replaced them all, didn't fix the issue. Checked all the fluids, looks like maybe transfer case is buggered, cloudy oil, spiky metal fragments on the magnet...... It's only done 140,000kms. Always had the oils done..... Basically as soon as it's fixed I'm selling the POS. My last Holden Commodore....... I had that over 10 years and never had an issue. I haven't even had this Kluger 4 years myself.
Thank you so much for this video and your guide. My local dealer wanted $567 dollars for this same job that you did on this video, I was able to do it under 45 minutes and for about $60 dollars. God bless you and your family.
$567 LOL. and this is why the Stealerships will never get my business. I saw an invoice on my Toyota (from previous owner). The stealership charged $600 for an engine air filter, PCV, and cabin filter.
Damn bro went in😢
How tf you spend $60 only??? The toyota ws fluid only is $100 for 6 qts
And then another $10 for the crush washers
@@martincortez4956 I don't believe he is referring to the Trans fluid. Just the diff fluid and the transfer case fluid or (Power transfer unit on AWD).
75w85 is the fluid for an AWD rav4 and you can easily use 75w90 fluid that is fully synthetic and it's like 1/3 of the cost.
Ws atf fluid can be purchased on rock auto. Do not buy your fluids from the dealer!
My toyota dealership charges $100. Jiffy lube charges $120. That's for each one, xfer case, rear diff.
This is the next best thing to hanging out all day in a Toyota Service Dept
I don't think you know how helpful you are to so many people. Thank you.
i like how you always take so much pride in your work as you always clean extra fluid up right away. We need more people like yourself AMD to work on our Toyota cars and trucks
His customers are probably aware how fortunate they are to have him.
I learned a lot about Toyota vehicles by watching your video. Real genuine Toyota information.
What about checking the breathers on Toyota Transfer Cases and Differentials. Where are they located? When I worked as a diesel truck mechanic (retired now) when doing a regular engine oil change and service, you always checked the Transmission and Differential breathers to make sure they were open and not plugged up with dirt. A plugged breather will allow the unit to build up pressure (from the heat) and push oil out a seal. I've seen guys change a leaking Wheel or Pinion Seal only to have it leak again because the breather was plugged.
Also when servicing drive train components, the vehicle must be level so that the fill plugs work correctly. A vehicle that has one end up on jack stands is likely going to give you an incorrect reading on the amount of oil you installed. Not everybody has a vehicle lift in their garage.
Thank you for taking the time to make these videos. There is a lot of information available and you do a great job explaining everything.
Best regards
Gerald
Glad you mentioned the warning about the “smell”. Differential fluid can be an extremely repulsive smell to some people and lingers for a long time if spilled… Not like I know first-hand or anything 😊
I spilled some used differential fluid in my car one time. It stank until I got rid of the car 6 months later.... Definitely not related to the smell... no.... nope, not at all.
"We are car care nuts here, we're doing this ourselves" has a good ring to it.
I own two Toyotas, This guy is a treasure.
I called my local Toyota Dealer for a quote on my 2019 Rav4 Adventure (Torque Vectoring) just out of curiosity: $400 for rear diff, $300 for transfer case. OMG, are they freaking kidding!!! I'm doing both for about $100 in about an hour plus I'll have washers and the syringe for the next change. Thanks for the video AMD!
You do a great job teaching and providing correct fluids and torque values. Fantastic lighting and camera work as well. No questions unanswered as you anticipated all issues and helped prevent others. I wish all tutorials were as thorough.
One of the most important elements of your videos.. is going slowly and being calm. People that are new to working on cars can get nervous and rush thru things and make mistakes. Your thinking thru things is a great thing to teach.
I many years ago did a clutch / press plate / pilot bearing on a 280 z datsun. I made the mistake that you covered. I forgot to loosten the fill plug until I had the transmission back in the car.. my mistake clearly. I ended up filling the gear lube thru the speedo cable hole with the back of the car up 5 feet.. a huge project. I told the owner... my girlfriend that the car is good.. but if we ever pull out the trans or clutch I need to address that fill plug. She never had anyone ever check the level in 15 years of ownership ☹
Your contribution to the DIY community is immeasurable. The amount of detail you show within each instructional video is far superior compared to anything I have seen out there. God bless you for the work you do. Subscribed.
Do you mind clarifying for the 2017 Highlander XLE how many different crush washers/gaskets are there for the front, middle, and rear gear oil fill and drain plugs/bolts. I want to make sure I am ordering the right parts.
Thank you in advance for your time.
Thanks again for showing us DIY warriors how to properly service and maintain our vehicles these how to videos are much-needed and appreciated 🙏🙏🙏
AMD you have the best tutorial. I did mine 2019 Tundra with Schaffer moly synthetic gear lube. Incredibly increases MpG to 17 from 15. Dealer wanted $600.
Really enjoy your educational style of videos and recommending it to friends. At time mark 10:40, about cleanup from oil on the exhaust. I actually throw a plastic or silicone pad over the pipe before cracking open the fill and drains to keep oil off the pipe. Cleanup goes much easier.
Thank you for this video sir. I didn't realize how easy it was to change differential and transfer case. It looks easier than changing engine oil. My dealer was charging me 400 bucks to do this job.
My toyota dealer in Canada is $200 for both.
Ripoff ripoff ripoff, even 200 is ludicrous.
I am so happy i found this video. I had my highlander transmission replaced and when i got it it started to leak transfer case fluid through the weep hole, only when i drove it. I took it back to the shop and the technician checked the fluid but i noticed the fluid gushed out and at that time i didnt know it should not gush out like that. They said there was no leak and it was a little normal to have som seepage in that area because they recently serviced it. But i noticed it kept leaking it was just small leak but i wasnt very happy about it. I started looking for answers and found this video, i remembered i saw a lot of oil comin out when that tech showed me that it was ok on oil level, and i went to check myself after watching this video, and sure it was overfilled with fluid. Thank you sir for this video it really helped me. I will look forward to see if it doesnt leak again, but im pretty sure it wont.
I have the same problem right now with mine, how did it go after draining to correct level.
I went to my Lexus dealer and requested them to change these fluids at 32,000 miles on my 2020 Lexus IS300 AWD Sport. They said they don't do these fluid changes as they are lifetime. Never had a dealer turn down a request for service before. I may have to try this myself using this video as it sounds like it should be done. Thanks.
You can do it!! I used four ramps so the whole 2020 Rav 4 I own was high enough off the ground to work. I picked up the ramps of FB marketplace for $30 a set.
Thank you for making informative videos that you provide. Even though I may not try some of these procedures on my own ( too old: lol ) I still find that watching and learning how things are done is always a good thing thanks to people like you showing all of us how and spending your time creating them. Thanks again.
Cool. I have a 2006 matrix 4wd with 183k. I use a 24mm 12pt box end (fill plug) and a 24mm 1/2 drive socket (drain plug) for transfer case. I ground the chamfer off the end of socket so it grabs the low profile bolt head better. Very easy service with proper information you have given.
Back when I was married(!) I bought my wife a 2001 Sequoia. I changed the rear differential oil at 10,000 miles. The drained oil was dark gray and had lots of metal shavings in it. My next change was at 30,000 miles. It was much less discolored. At each differential oil change the oil looked cleaner and cleaner. I guess my last change was at 120,000 miles. That oil looked like I put it in the day before. It was that clean after 30,000 miles. I did all maintenance by the book and we never did have any problem with that vehicle which appears to be typical for a Toyota.
May i ask what other maintenance did you do on that vehicle? I'm asking because I'm new to DIY car work and I'm trying to learn as much as I can about taking care of a car.
I have used this opportunity to swap the upper fill plugs with magnet style as well. And upgrade to 75w-140 synthetic.
I changed the differential fluid today in my wife’s Lexus. I crawled under from the rear as far as I could and used a mirror tilted toward the plugs to show me where to put the hex drive socket and also where to insert the fill hose into the fill hole. The mirror made it easy, without having to raise the vehicle.
not what I was looking for but watched the whole video
Great tip on the taps with a hammer. My plugs were rusted quite a bit more than the ones in this video. I didn’t have penetrating fluid so I used some brake cleaner after using a #mall wire brush. Before doing these things I couldn’t budge the fill plug. Afterwards it was as easy as if the plug had already been loosened half a turn. My Highlander has 125,000 km on it. The dealership’s Service Assistant manager told me last year Toyota has no recommendation for when to change these fluids. I us3d 75W90 Royal Purple synthetic gear oil and a1.5 litre ( about a US quart and a half ) syringe type of fluid transfer pump. It worked flawlessly, no leaking no mess. The plugs look way bigger on here than they did when I changed the diff.
Very informative and explains why I was unable to find my daughters front diff drain/fill plugs in her AWD Sienna a few months ago!! (But I got her TC and rear Diff changed as well as the transmission) For those crush washers, we put the side with the crease towards the vehicle, smooth side on the plug.
Thanks Ahmed! I'm getting ready to change the rear diff fluid on our 2008 Highlander with 250,000 miles on it and wanted to make sure I watched you do it first! Being in Massachusetts, I've been underneath the vehicle recently to observe what things look like after all these New England winters - that diff is crusted over with rust! I'm so glad to have seen you tap the plugs with a hammer, great tip!! Thanks again for the effort you expend for all of us DIYers.
It took me 2 days to change my gear oil. It was due to weather (I have no garage!) and schedule. But I took my time, sprayed PB blaster on the plugs, tapped them with a hammer, chipped away tons of rust crust on the diff casing, vacuumed, air blasted, and took notes of other things that needed work in the near future. (Like, how many people in the snow belt trust that their spare tire hanger is going to last? I fear the tire flying off one day...)
The gear oil was probably last changed over 75,000 miles ago - I really don't remember. It came out like medium maple syrup in color, not too dark, and it had minor metal flake in it. The drain plug magnet is almost 3/4" long and had a fair amount of metal sludge on it, but nothing worrisome at all. I was very pleased, especially after having to spend $4,000 earlier this year to replace the front differential after it failed.
Keeping the vehicle on a flat surface to be sure the gear oil fill is accurate is not the easiest project to do in your driveway. 😜 I removed the spare tire so my shoulders could fit under there.
You saved my bacon with the hammer trick. Some penetrating oil overnight and some hammering on the front diff drain plug got it loose. I had tried a long cheater and even an impact without success previously. Last person to tighten it was the local Toyota tech. An Arizona 4Runner without a speck of rust.
This video was very helpful and this is definitely something anyone can do. A couple of tips based on my experience with this is: 1. If you are skinny you can do it without even jacking the car up. 2: No idea how he got a ratchet in there as I had to use a 1/2 inch drive ratchet for the 24mm socket and while I could get onto the bolt, I couldn't ratchet as the exhaust pipe was in the way even with a swivel head. I ended up just adding a bunch of extensions (I saw this in someone else's video showing how to do this) and that allowed the ratchet to be all the way back behind the black floor shield and gave it room to move without rubbing on anything. From back here you can also see much better 3: I ordered a fluid pump but got the wrong size for my container and had to improvise. Using a large fluid syringe it was also pretty easy to put it in (especially for the rear diff). 4: Mine took exactly what the manual states for a 19 Highlander - 0.8qts in the front and 0.5qts in the rear. 5: There is a random hole on the left side of the rear of the transfer case (appears to be for a stud of some sort?). Going in blind after having been out from under the car for awhile and with the refill bolt out, it is easy to confuse the two if you are just sticking your hand up there to feel for a hole. If you do make this mistake, the oil will just seep out right away from the stud hole and if you are using a pump it will likely make a big mess. The best way to get visibility is to go back behind the black floor shield as you can see the refill hole very well from there. Whether using a syringe with an extended hose or a pump, i would suggest you set it up and then pump from back there so you can see everything you are doing.
Hi Sean, can you please share video link for "I saw this in someone else's video showing how to do this"?
I am having same issue with transfer case fill plug removal (Sienna 2017).
@@farhodaskarov5859 czcams.com/video/Hug7aerSK_M/video.html about 4 minutes in
Your videos always impress me . Really great explanations for DIY and for people that may not do it but it’s good for them to know the process and all that’s involved . You and everyone at your shop are just incredible . You guys blow my mind
Just did the transfer case & front/rear diff service on my Dad's 2017 SR5 Crewmax 4WD Tundra last week! Ordered via that Ravenol Gear Oil kit. I reused the washers because it was the 1st time for this service but will replace for sure next time now that I know the part numbers. Thanks AMD.
My local dealer charges $450 for this as a “4 Wheel Drive Service.” Using this channel and others, I was able to do it for $75-including synthetic gear oil and new gaskets-on my 2005 Land Cruiser.
Thanks you!
Lexus GS/IS/LS Sedans have a rear AWD transfer case that shares fluid with the trans. The trucks I believe have their own Fluid. Clean out your vents too. I had a front axle seal leak on my GS and it was because of a clogged vent. Similar setup to many trucks.
Interesting, my Lexus dealer told me the AWD LS transfer case is separate from the transmission. I just had it in for all the fluids changed. Front & rear dif's, transfer case and transmission. All for a low price of $867. And even a car wash. No wax. I think that would have put it over a thousand bucks. I wish I could work on my own cars.😣
@@Laggy200ms I did it in a few hours. It is not the most fun job and the fluid stinks. Toyota Fluids are probably over $200 of that price. The rear end fluid is extremely expensive. The transfer case is physically separate but the LS could be slightly different, I think the transfer case has a torsion setup whereas the GS/IS has an open differential with a lockup system. Looking it up - yes, the LS takes special, expensive fluid in the Xfer case - different from the V6 GS and IS.
The best videos EVER on Toyotas.
Great video! Your approach transcends just car maintenance - it celebrates quality in all we do.
On my 4Runner I replaced the factory transfer case drain plug with a magnetic one. The size is M18x1.5×12. I used a Dimple Motor Oil Magnet but there are a few others on the market.
My transfer case fluid always comes out crystal clean, just as the new oil.
A great educational video on draining and refilling your fluids. Very useful.
I never thought about opening the fill before drain…great advice !
Another nice and simple DIY instruction, complete with part numbers and torque specs. It would be nice to have some input on the breather valves, regarding any cleaning, testing for blockages/rust, or pre-emptive replacement since they are a common cause of oil seal leaks in the rust belt.
Hi! If the breather is not a remote one if it spins or moves it’s good.
@@TheCarCareNut how many breather valves on a 2008 Tacoma 4x4 trd sport quad cab/6ft bed?
Here is my question, should I put more stronger magnet drain plugs? apparently the toyota ones barely attracts any metal fuzz @@TheCarCareNut
@@johnysky6066 Or maybe Toyotas don't need bigger magnets because they are manufactured with tight tolerances and produce fewer metal shavings during their lifespans?
I actually still find a fair amount of wear particles on my rear diff (2014 Highlander). Now granted my first change was at pretty close to 60,000 mi (I didn't know then to do it sooner). But after changing it and then checking it at almost 69,000 mi it is fairly dark and still as much wear particles as before, I was to put in much stronger magnetic plugs but at 5mm longer don't know if the will fit on both top and bottom for even more cleaning performance.
thanks. you answered multiple questions. I'm used to normal 4wd
Even though I had watched your video before I forgot about the 'hammer tapping' trick. I tried to remove the fill plug on my 2016 Highlander's differential with a ratchet (no go) then an impact (again no go). I watched this video again and tried the 'hammer tapping' and both of those plugs came out SOOOOO easily with just a ratchet!! Thank you so much for the tip, you saved me a bunch of money! Now, I just have to find the fill plug on the transfer case LOL.
A simple ‘thank you’. The correct information from a highly qualified and respected source.
Needless to say, as soon as I get OEM Washers I’ll be picking up the oil(s).
Now onto your fluids video to determine what oil I need for my 2017 Tacoma SR5 4WD with limited slip….
Thanks. I'm gaining confidence i can do these maintenance jobs by your fine demos.
Thank you for the vid. Just Bought '11 RX350 FWD with 29K miles Lexus and want to do fluid cleanse.
EXCELLENT tutorial, sir!! Thank you for sharing your expert knowledge and educating weekend warriors like myself! :) God bless!
Its an important consideration to level your rig when its in the air while doing this.
May the Lord Bless You and Keep You and your family as well! Thanks for the blessing I accept it!
Nice, concise video on a very necessary service! Thanks for the efforts in making it.
Thank you so much for this high level of transparency, openness & teaching.....
Great vid. Just changed the diffs and transfer case fluid on my 02 Sequoia. The tapping must work. All drain and fill plugs came right out. 😊
Thanks for educating us. Knowing the 'why' is always important.
Nice work brother keep up the good work I really like how you work and care about the car like it's yours I wish every mechanic like you thanks so much .
I changed the transfer case fluid and the rear differential fluid on my 2016 Toyota RAV4 yesterday. The car had 70K miles and the fluid had never been replaced before. Given that I had waited longer than the recommended interval, I expected the oil to be really nasty. Nope. It looked like it was almost new. The front transfer case was still a nice gold color and had almost zero crud on the magnet. The rear diff was a little darker fluid with a little more crud on the magnet. I'm certainly not going to do this again at just another 30K with the fluid and magnets looking this good after 70K. I'll probably give it at least another 70K.
I agree. I think that fluid is good for longer intervals. But if pulling a trailer then it should be done sooner.
Great video as usual! I unfortunately never had the rear differential and transfer case oil replaced on my 2014 RAV4 (87,000 miles). I'm debating whether or not to replace it now that I'm well past the recommended interval (AMD mentioned in another video that if your transmission fluid hasn't been replaced at the recommended interval, you shouldn't change it).
Thank you for giving us the torque specifications i really recommend using a torque wrench on drain and fill plugs.
Thanks! Very helpful. Especially the labor one can expect if hiring it done.
I think the flat side of the crush washer should sit against the bolt head rather than against the differential housing. But I've seen differing opinions about this. What do you think?
Very detailed explanation just as open book. Thank you so much for the video posted
Can you talk about cleaning the vent on top of rear differential to prevent pressure build up and seal leaking. great video's
This is great this just came up. I’m changing these fluids tomorrow.
Great videos!! I’ve watched a few of your videos and this is my first comment. You always teach me at least a few things every video! I appreciate your honesty and as always, thanks for sharing your knowledge!
I wish Toyota would mandate that their dealerships could only hire service techs with morals and expertise such as yours!!
This is a great straight forward procedure for those tackling it and a refresher for those of us who only do it once every 2-3 years!
Are the procedures for the AWD Torsen models any different?
Hi! The same. You just need to be aware of the different fluid requirement
Great video you are my Toyota mechanic
First, thank you for all of your videos, I was able to solve my own issue with my 4Runner (below) but I also have a 2015 Tundra Platinum and need help based on something you mention to be aware of. You mention that the TUNDRA transfer case drain plug changed in SOME year models, 2014 and up, where the seal is built-in and the drain plug must be replaced and part obtained from a dealership. My problem is that of two dealerships that I have inquired with, NO ONE at the parts desk can answer my question thus far if my drain plug is one of those. My local dealer identified the correct part on their computer diagram in front of me but it must be ordered (a week to arrive, after selling me the wrong drain plug initially) but still told me that he cannot tell me whether or not the plug is of the type you mention with the built-in seal. My transfer case drain plug is one that sits flush (not a hex head) and it is driven by a 3/8" square socket drive extension. Are you able to tell if mine is one of those design changes? I do have my 4Runner for use, but my Tundra is on jack stands now until the new drain plug arrives, unless I use the old one which I am not inclined to do. When I removed my current drain plug and fluid, there was no washer on the plug.
Great tip brother on the removing of the fill plug always before the drain plug
You and your info and vids are literally the best. Thanks.
best practice is to check the vent hoses/fittings to make certain they're clear. Obstructions in the vent path can make for pressure buildup and leaks.
Where r these hoses/vents?
Thx👍
@@rudysmachado5747 On top of each gear box, you'll find a fitting with either a tin cap that should free spin so any dirt inside will fall out, or there may be a hose coming off said fitting to a higher point on the body and a similar capped vent on the end.
Great review and helpful hints for the do it yourself person. I know you are very busy with your shop but it would be nice if you did a series of maintenance service for the third generation Tacoma. You really explain things very nicely. Thanks
Would you do a video on towing capacity breaking everything down from a mechanic's view , love your videos you don't discriminate you tell it as it is and are not afraid to tell us the good and the ugly.
Thanks for this video. I was on my way to filling from the high-mounted plug, until you set me straight!
Toyota's hex socket plugs are all 10mm, or so I'm told. A 10mm socket would not fit my Highlander. I cleaned the cavity thoroughly, but the 10mm socket would not engage fully, no matter how hard I pounded. A 3/8" hex socket (9.53mm) fit perfectly, however. Still, I noticed that it started to strip when I applied torque. I switched to a T55 TORX socket and applied 60 seconds of heat with a butane torch, and the plugs broke free with surprisingly little effort. I replaced the plugs with hex head M18-1.5 stainless magnetic plugs.
Thanks for another great tutorial! You make it enjoyable to work on your own vehicle!!
Does it matter which way you orient the crush washer
For the 24 mm plugs on landcruisers etc, I have a six point socket that I have ground the open face flat to eliminate the champher - lets it engage with the skinny plug a bit better.
Thanks for sharing this video, interesting and informative, thanks
Thank you for your videos!
Will one can of the factory differential fluid (Toyota Gear Oil - 08885-02506 1 liter) cover both front transfer case and rear differential on a 2015 RX?
Thank you. Your teaching technic is very informative and clear. You should be a professor at a technical school/ university😁I’m sure the students will learn from you a lot! -Los. Keep up the good work.
I neglected to take note of the orientation of the crush washer gaskets on the fill and drain plugs for my 2005 highlander V6 3.3L. One side is rounded and the other side is flat. Which side is to be oriented toward the differential housing? Dealership parts dept. says flat side to the house but some auto forums I searched indicate the opposite.
'98 LS400. Most important thing for me was being sure I could remove the filler plug (very tight) before removing the drain. Had to order the exactly right gear oil (Miller's). Both Mobile and Lexus of NA advised that I not substitute a similar multi-viscosity product. Substitution for LS430 was OK.
Probably shouldn't have done the job since the old oil even after 140K looked great and no debris at all on the magnet.
That front fluid was a little brown. Good job of changing it! Are there "vents" to be concerned about? I've been watchn u for yrs now, u should be an instructor if u ever get tired (or ur back hurts) from workn on cars! Dont know why it never crossed my mind. I dont even OWN a AWD & I enjoy ur videos! 😁
Hi! Usually the vent on AWD models rarely clog. More common on trucks especially the rear differential.
Thanks for another awesome sharing mate. Super appreciate it.
Straightforward and direct instructions. Thanks!
As always, great video. Thank you AMD.
Another thumbs up from me🤟🤓 have a great day.
Really good walkthrough from start to finish-thank you!!
You, sir, are an inspiration. Your hard work, dedication, and attention to detail are 2nd to none. This is a great channel.
What are your thoughts on the 2017 Lexus CT200h ? Thanks so much for your feedback.
Hi! The 2017 CT is good. Very close to the Prius but in a nicer package. Any CT after 2014 is good
Just did this on my 2014 Toyota Rav4 which has 75000 miles on it but the most difficult and time consuming part was taking those stubborn hex bolts off (certainly a couple taps didn't work for me lol... I live in Toronto so am not sure if the salt on the roads during the winter creates this condition)especially the fill-in plug which is so hard to get to that i almost gave up. The transfer case/gear oil didn't look too bad (light brownish) so i don't know if it was worth the hassle since it's synthetic. I had recently replaced the transmission fluid after watching your video and that seemed so much easier. I can take comfort knowing that I don't need to worry about it for some time now😄 and thank you🙏🏽
Hi, I'm getting ready to do my 2018 Rav4. What type of GL-5 did you use? Do you only need the 10 mm hex, or is there a different size? Thanks!
Hi, thank you for the video and information regarding the difference between an AWD versus 4WD. I have a 2021 Toyota Venza, and it has close to 55,000 miles on it. I learned early on (my father taught me basics of auto/car care before I can drive) to take care of my vehicles. So, at this level of miles on the vehicle, I need to change the transfer case fluid and rear differential. As you explained, I would expect or should expect the mechanic/auto technician to change the gaskets on the all the plugs (fill and drain). Nowadays, you cannot see the auto technician working on your car. Auto shops before (70s-80s) had viewing windows. I guess I have trust issues because I have had experience where auto shop has "burned" me so does speak. If I had a lift for my vehicle I would do it myself (but that's another wish) :) Thank you again.
Get a decent floor Jack and a couple pairs of jack stands. It’s definitely worth it for peace of mind.
And I’ll just add, as many times as I’ve been burned.. you have every right to have trust issues..
Thank you for the valuable information it was awesome!!! 👍🏻
awesome another topic I was wondering about 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽.. thank you very much
Hey AMD, love your work thank you. A suggestion I work at night and listen to your recorded live stream. You can upload just a audio version of your live stream on podcast which will be very helpful in expanding your reach. I want this channel to grow. Thanks again 🙏.
This guy is an absolute legend! Thankyou for sharing your information once again. I have a quick question, is the Mobil 1 better than genuine toyota gear oil?
Thank you for such a helpful video 👍👍God bless 🙌🙌
Outstanding video. Very informative…. Keep up the great videos! I will send you a sombrero !
Great hands on video 👍🏼
Great video! On the issue of drivetrain, do you have any videos specifically about propellor shaft/spline/u-joint maintenance? Thanks!
As always an excellent informative video. Thank you
I got a 2017 Toyota Kluger (Highlander). Got a ner ner ner sound inside cabin at speed mostly 40km/h+ ....... thought wheel bearings replaced them all, didn't fix the issue. Checked all the fluids, looks like maybe transfer case is buggered, cloudy oil, spiky metal fragments on the magnet...... It's only done 140,000kms. Always had the oils done..... Basically as soon as it's fixed I'm selling the POS. My last Holden Commodore....... I had that over 10 years and never had an issue. I haven't even had this Kluger 4 years myself.