How Often Should the Final Drive Oil Be Changed?
2 Answers
The final drive oil can be changed every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. For specific models, please refer to the maintenance manual. Here is an introduction to the final drive oil: 1. Introduction to Final Drive Oil: The final drive is actually the part connecting the two rear wheels of a car. The correct technical term for the final drive is the final reduction ratio gear. Final drive oil is the oil injected into those gears. Final drive oil is just a customary term; in layman's terms, it is actually gear oil, also known as differential oil. 2. Functions of Final Drive Oil: Final drive oil is used in various gear transmission devices to prevent tooth surface wear, scratches, sintering, etc., thereby extending their service life and improving power transmission efficiency. Gear oil should have good anti-wear and load-bearing properties, as well as appropriate viscosity. Final drive oil should also have good thermal oxidation stability, anti-foaming properties, water separation performance, and rust prevention properties. Since gear loads are generally above 490 MPa, and the load on hypoid gear surfaces can reach as high as 2,942 MPa, extreme pressure anti-wear agents are often added to gear oil to prevent oil film rupture, which can cause tooth surface wear and scratches. Sulfur-phosphorus or sulfur-phosphorus-nitrogen additives are commonly used. The working temperature of gear oil is generally lower than that of internal combustion engine oil and largely varies with environmental temperature changes. The oil temperature of vehicle gear oil generally does not exceed 100 degrees Celsius.
I've been driving for over ten years, and the frequency of differential oil changes mainly depends on the vehicle manual. It's generally recommended to change it every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers—never exceed that. Last time, I neglected it, and my car started making a humming noise. When I took it in for maintenance, I found the oil was dirty and thickened, nearly damaging the differential. Now, I strictly follow the manual and also check the oil level and color. If the oil turns black or has metal shavings, I replace it immediately. Regular maintenance not only ensures safety but also saves on major repair costs. Remember to have it checked by a professional shop every year or two.
