When Should the Rear Axle Oil Be Changed?
2 Answers
According to different oil brands, the replacement intervals vary. Below are the relevant details: 1. Generally, for most oil brands, the rear axle gear oil should be replaced every 20,000-30,000 kilometers or approximately every six months. Recommended brands include Shell or Great Wall. 2. Additionally, the replacement interval depends on the vehicle's load conditions. Typically, imported cars require replacement every 40,000 kilometers, domestic mid-sized cars every 20,000 kilometers, and micro cars every 10,000 kilometers. 3. Gear oil primarily refers to the lubricant used in transmissions and rear axles. It differs from engine oil in terms of usage conditions, composition, and performance. Gear oil mainly functions to lubricate gears and bearings, prevent wear and corrosion, and assist in heat dissipation for the gears.
I've been driving off-road vehicles for twenty years and have some experience to share about the timing of rear axle oil changes. Generally, I change it every 40,000 kilometers or every two years. Especially for someone like me who frequently drives on mountain roads or tows, the wear accelerates, so changing it at 30,000 kilometers is even better. If the oil isn't changed in time, the internal gears of the differential can wear out severely, and the car is prone to making a buzzing noise. Repairs can be very expensive—once I delayed it and ended up spending nearly 2,000 yuan to fix it. Now, I regularly check the oil. If it appears cloudy or has metal particles, I immediately take it to the shop for a change. This not only extends the vehicle's lifespan but also ensures driving safety and avoids sudden breakdowns. In short, following the owner's manual recommendations is the safest bet, as different driving habits can affect the frequency.
