How Often Should the Rear Axle Oil of a Truck Be Changed?
2 Answers
The rear axle oil of a truck generally needs to be changed every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers. For new vehicles, the rear axle oil should be replaced during the 12,000-kilometer maintenance. After that, the rear axle oil should be inspected every 24,000 kilometers. If there is noticeable discoloration or thinning, it should be replaced immediately. There is no fixed replacement cycle for truck rear axle oil; it depends on the driving conditions and environment of the vehicle, and different oil brands may have varying intervals. The rear axle oil functions in the gear transmission mechanisms of the vehicle's steering gear, transmission, and drive axle, providing excellent lubrication and cooling effects, as well as certain anti-corrosion and anti-rust properties. Additionally, it helps reduce gear surface impact and noise.
As a long-haul driver with over a decade of experience, I pay special attention to the maintenance of truck rear axle oil. Generally, the oil should be changed every 20,000 to 40,000 kilometers. If you frequently drive on mountainous roads or carry heavy loads, the interval should be shortened to 15,000 kilometers due to higher oil temperatures and faster wear. I've personally seen a colleague neglect oil changes, which led to the rear axle gears seizing up, resulting in a breakdown on the road and repair costs running into thousands. Checking the oil level is simple: regularly inspect the dipstick. If the oil turns black or contains metal shavings, it's a clear signal to change it. Different trucks, like light-duty and heavy-duty ones, have varying requirements, and manual transmissions might be a bit more durable. Don’t procrastinate to save trouble—otherwise, replacing a whole new gear set will cost more in the long run, wasting time and jeopardizing business safety. Always use high-quality GL-5 grade oil, as it offers better protection for the system under harsh road conditions.
