Toyota Tacoma Differential Fluid Change // Transfer Case & Engine Oil

Changing the differential fluid, transfer case oil and engine oil on your Toyota Tacoma is a fairly easy process. In this video I show how easy it can be to do. Fluid changes are pretty much the most important maintenance you can do for your Toyota Tacoma.
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Thanks, Kelly.

[@jsol2480]

Shop owner telling us to diy this because its super easy and showing us how to do it too. What a legend.

[@jamesnewland9532]

"Remove the fill plug before the drain plug so you aren't stuck with no fluid." Outstanding word of wisdom!

[@jacampa]

Quick, direct and straight to the point. No BS! Thanks for sharing

[@Rayjaay503]

I love quality videos like this. Thank you sir!

[@ApothaconF4i]

Thanks man, just rolled over to 100k and this was on my hit list of maintenance items

[@erictuthill9029]

Easy job made much easier by this video, thank you sir!

[@youngmechanic8016]

Wow, this video had all the information I was looking for a while. All the information is very detailed and you got my subscription. Thank you so much!!!👍👍👍👍

[@Ratlins9]

Yes, I’m trying to learn so thank you very much for this detailed video.

[@Papparratzi]

Straight to the point each segment. 🏁

[@humbertovelarde7350]

Straight to the point nice video, and thanks for passing your knowledge .

[@rickshaw3092]

Excellent video. Instructive, cleear and concise with no BS. Don’t normally subscribe but you are a good teacher/ presenter. Thank you.

[@RMDZ019]

Nice and clean, perfect tutorial!! Please more Tacoma service tutorials!!

[@stickyhooksfishing2829]

Awesome mechanic! I wouldn't hesitate bringing my car to you.

[@kernelcaptinn6784]

You did a great job on the video!! Thanks so much man

[@mylas3g966]

Great video man. Doing this myself.

[@renepardo5428]

Good job with the easy tutorial! 👍🏼

[@oday3514]

I just did this on my truck today. Note that the diff & transfer case oil (75W90) now comes in squeeze packets (like juice packets for kids), so you don't need the pump anymore. Also, to not make the mess like you did with the front diff, crack both plugs (fill and drain) but do not remove the fill plug until AFTER oil starts flowing out of the drain hole. EVERY bolt on my truck is torqued with a torque wrench.

[@capitalistrebel9358]

what brand for ? ..... "diff & transfer case oil (75W90) now comes in squeeze packets (like juice packets for kids)"

[@ryarr88]

Watched many ,but you do it the best..Thanks

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Thanks Randy.

[@theyeticlutch3486]

Good quality video's man keep it up! Thanks for the no bullshit content even with the basics

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Appreciate it, thanks.

[@kongtaing5206]

Thank you, great instruction!!!

[@tthoy7338]

I like your no bullshit straightforward style! Well done 👍 I just subscribed.

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Thank you.

[@johnbalasa711]

Thanks for showing .

[@marklarson6237]

I was just quoted over $300 to replace my differential fluid by the Toyota dealership. This is not covered by my "Platinum Service" plan for some reason I've done a lot of my own work in the past and told them, "No thanks. I'll get done somewhere else." I decided to look up a video on how to do this, and I found this awesome video by this awesome mechanic.

[@randyleppell8885]

Great stuff bud!

[@emiliogonzaleztorres8978]

Excellent video 👌

[@robbylong830]

Great Video! Thank you.

[@cornmac1796]

Great videos thanks for great advice and beautiful truck!!!

[@Beacon_Offroad]

No problem, thank you.

[@jmpattillo]

Thanks for this. I changed my rear diff fluid myself. I ran into complications because the last guy way over torqued the fill plug. I had to borrow a pneumatic wrench from a friend.

[@walksridges]

Great video!! When I change the engine oil on my 2013 Tacoma, I use a 3 foot length of 5/16" vacuum tubing to drain the oil from the catch below the oil filter. It fits right on the nipple on the bottom, and I can drain it right into my oil drain pan.

[@mojorayjones]

Great video. I appreciate your guidance as I'm doing this myself for the first time today. But, you have me dialed in so no worries. Thanks!

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Goodluck, it'll be easy, you got it.

[@MrRedHotChiliMan]

@@Beacon_OffroadI ended up using Redline MTLV in my 08 Tacoma transfer case. I’m now second guessing if that was the best choice. I’d seriously like to know your thoughts about it and what you were using/if you had a good recommendation.

[@mrbubbles6961]

Good video. Thanks.

[@tommisera3816]

Great video and good advice. A fellow BC guy, I would love to take my Tacoma to your shop for maintenance. Cheers

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Thanks, were in Surrey-Fleetwood.

[@chuckdearruda6271]

I really like your style Kelly. Hope you keep the videos coming. I’m looking forward to a coolant drain and refill video,,, my 2013 due this summer.

[@efil4kizum]

has he posted one of these coolant exchanges yet??

[@chuckdearruda6271]

@@efil4kizum I don’t know. I haven’t been watching much KZbin lately.

[@EM-mp4kp]

Very helpful video 👏🏻

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Thank you.

[@shawnc3030]

Nice. I appreciate the no "hulk smash" method to re-tightening drain and filler plugs. So many times dealer techs tighten those things to 80 ft pounds. When they need less than half that.

[@jimbernard8964]

Thanks. New Taco owner here with a used '15. Going to do this this weekend.

[@noelsanvi]

Thank you for explaining in detail the steps to follow. a How many miles do you have to change the differential oil? ✌🏽

[@stevanrose7439]

Thanks for the detailed video. Don’t forget to check the vent cap. Only a few say anything about it. And if you had to you could fill the rear differential through it.

[@efil4kizum]

thanks!!

[@pitchforkpeasant6219]

Spilled some fluid on the floor. BUSTED😂. Youre just trying to make us all feel better😊

[@user-ep7sk8yc7y]

Awesome video! I’ll be doing my own soon as I had a shop do it and they put 85x90 in the front and rear and 95w105 in the transfer case for some reason and I don’t even haul anything as I have a 2013 base model 2 door with the 2.7L and 4x4 which I rarely use. Seems like my mpg has gone way down as well. Can’t believe I paid them and they did that. 🤦‍♂️

[@hungle-zv7mk]

we sure like how U showed your clip. Ty

[@brandtlapko6962]

Good vid dude. I like how you put the differentials and transfer case together in doing this job. But dude, you drained the oil and replaced the plug without breaking the seal on the oil filter.

[@kauaixtremeshorefishing1021]

Thanks for sharing braddhah...

[@Beacon_Offroad]

🤙

[@jod1113]

Thank you for a great video. How often do you rec changing transfer case oil?

[@willamguyea9468]

Great Video!!….Now that I see how easy it is I’m all in!…get some mud on that truck will ya!..Cheers🍻thanks!

[@emiliohuerta2658]

motel gear motul sae 75 w 90 man I love this video, just alone the dealer wanted 140 dollars just for transfer oil. Wanted to do myself and toyata transfer case oil recommended was 84 dollars just one quart

[@shuwtist1]

Thank you for this video, great info. Do you know if the TRD Off Road with the Limited Slip Diff needs to have the lube additive? My last LSD on a Dodge Ram needed it. Thanks for putting these up!

[@miguellozano8936]

A tip for draining the oil filter. Use a old 1 quart oil bottle. It wedges against the radiator hose. Just don’t forget it. Itll make a mess when you drive the truck around.

[@kstrohan]

Nice vid dude

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Thank you

[@lilpelusa]

Great video. Love the quality. Easy and simple. I recently traded my father his Toyota for a car. So now I have a 06 Toyota Tacoma 4x4 V6 4.0 with 312k miles. Engine and transmission original. So far I done 2 oil changes. It takes about 5.5 quarts of oil. I notice during those oil changes after draining it burns about 1quart of oil. Only guessing because I collect a little over 4.75 quarts of old oil. The oil I use is Synthetic so I do oil change between 4-5K miles. To me it’s still Dam good. I’m ready to do a differential oil change and do a transfer case oil change as well thanks to your video. Should I do a transmission fluid change as well? What do yall recommend? Also have yall replaced your O2 sensors yet? I have engine light because of that. Thanks

[@appleman812]

My 15 trd sport took 4 qts even tho the manual states 3.19 I believe..was on level ground and everything.. filled until barely dripped out the fill hole.

[@eljefeslash]

Thanks for the video, nice and to the point, great visuals and instruction. I'm way overdue for a differential fluid change and haven't wanted to pay to have it done. I feel much better about it after watching and will knock it out soon. Random question - I have a smaller version of the mityvac fluid extractor/dispenser that I just used for a power steering flush. Do you have any recommendations for cleaning it out? Just want to make sure I don't mix different auto fluids (and get ATF in the differential housing, vice versa) when using it for different projects. Thanks!

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Thanks for the feedback. Get er done!

[@admatai07]

I like how you filmed the cleanup of your spill instead of editting it out lol

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Lol yeah

[@larrycooper9487]

Yea I know the Toyota owner’s manual says to do so but there is negligible difference between 75w85 and 75w90 gear oil. I’d just use the same in all three locations.

[@sparklight5317]

Thanks hoss...this was exactly what I was looking to understand. My '10 Taco is a bit behind on this I'm guessing. Bought 6mo with 135K on it....and 10yrs of Northern winters underneath. Which will be fun. Subbed for this video. Don't suppose you'd do one on a brake system flush?

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Thank you. A few people have asked, probably do one in the next few weeks.

[@markhostetler9812]

I seen you were using full synthetic for the engine oil, but I seen the specs from Toyota which specifically describe a “non-synthetic” oil for most 2nd Gen Tacomas. It looks like that is what yours is, so is it a big deal either way? Also, I just did all my fluids yesterday and noticed a bit of “play” in the axles where they go into the front differential. Is that normal? Thanks for the video! Great stuff. I wish I had a lift!

[@whatfreedom7]

In the locker set up do they use reg or limited slip fluid. Toyota told me according to my vin it used limited slip but everyone else says no.

[@uno3863]

Great tutorial, my '12 tacoma is due for an engine oil change (which I always do myself) but since I've owned my tacoma for 3 years I'm not sure the front/ rear differentials and transfer case have ever been changed so I will be doing that as well, and your video was exactly the explanation I needed thank you 👍🏽. Oh, did your guys ever give you shit about spilling that oil? 🤣🤣

[@gchowww9175]

Great how to video ! The best video for changing all 3 drive cases. I was hoping you would cover which way crush washers go, flat or round side toward the case. Can you also please make a video in case removing the plugs go wrong, front differential is the worst one with the allen key drive. What would you do if you can't remove or it becomes stripped? Thanks

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Already got you. Here you go kzbin.info/www/bejne/roaolWOvn7p9asU

[@gchowww9175]

@@Beacon_Offroad Thanks! another great video when things go Fubar!

[@lorenhebert8557]

What are the torque specs on those fill and drain plugs?

[@antyvyruz]

👍

[@x-pertease577]

My Tacoma is 4WD and comes with a lsd. Do I have to add anything in the mix for it? TYIA!

[@VaughanWood]

What spray do you use to clean off the oil spill?

[@imadjubranimad3341]

What’s the torque specifications for front rear and transfer Case please?

[@nathanrice1796]

Never seen an engine with the oil filter in an "upside down" position like that. Does make it easier to get to it though.

[@MrMikey1273]

I think the diffs and transfer case are the same on 3rd gen so that was helpful. 3rd gen oil filter is totally different cartridge filter under the truck.

[@Beacon_Offroad]

100%. Although I have a 3rd gen Tacoma now. I might oil change and filter comparison video.

[@MrMikey1273]

@@Beacon_Offroad so far since I found you videos they seem well done to the point. I've not tried to change my oil yet but I want to at 5000 miles. That cartridge filter is a new animal to me but It won't intimidate me.

[@DonAsk-ks2qy]

What's the Url on the website with the specifications for torque and capacities.

[@kenobi894]

Hey dumb question, but what size washers did you use?

[@EngineNoise305]

What are the torque specs ? Would they be the same for a 06 Tacoma?

[@RancorEmp]

god i wish i watched this video like 2 days ago lol. I thought the differential fluid change would be way more involved...now i know!

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Haha, well goodluck

[@anthonypapaleo1940]

Well I tried it and using a 24 mm socket got the fill plug out of rear differential but wound up stripping the drain bolt why do used aluminum bolts ? I think 15/16 would be wiser choice .. anyway time for a new bolt and get this old one out back to the drawing board..

[@cuttinthruchaos7248]

My 2013 tacoma is hitting 94k. Man. You’re an MVP. Im happy i came across your channel. Subscribed. I can’t wait to get all of this done myself now to extend my trucks life. I love that thing. Thanks for making these for those of us who aren’t mechanics. Also, do you recommend greasing CV’s and all of that? Whats you’re essentials things to do as i creep up on 100k that i can do myself to not overpay a dealership per say?

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Thank you. Just stay on top of all your fluids. Consistently service them a touch ahead of schedule. That's what's I've personally always done with my own vehicles. If your doing the work, fluids really aren't too expensive.

[@efil4kizum]

@@Beacon_Offroad this fluid maintenance can cost those that are hindered somehow someway (handicapped?) anywhere between 400$ and 500$ which it seems VERY pricey compared to what the various quickLube places were doing 30yrs ago at $14.99 to $19.99 per gearBox

[@Musaf3r]

is it equally good for a automatic transmission Tacoma?

[@ozzzy2000]

For my 07 LSD it recommends 80 SAE differential gear oil. Anything less than the viscosity you'll run into issues.

[@Beacon_Offroad]

They take either 80-90- 75-90 or 75-110 depending on model and spec. And in reality you could probably swap all 3 and never run into a issue. But it is what it is.

[@johnh8546]

75W-90 is a SAE-90 oil when it gets to operating temperature. The 75W means it is a 75 when it is cold.

[@MrMeme50000]

Watt tipped oil you used four transfercase and differential.?

[@obedrodriguez2327]

Excellent video, congratulations! My truck is 90k miles old and I have never changed rear, front and transfer differential oil. Do you recommend me to do it?

[@82dupont]

No fluid last forever, I change mine every 30,000 it’s a simple and inexpensive job.

[@todtalk3912]

You wont necessarily be stuck with no fluid, u will then be stuck with plan b, which is either removing that bolt with any means possible most likely needing to replace it dep on the methods used or drilling a new hole and adding a new fill plug, which in either case u'll need a nee one plug lol.

[@ryank.7920]

One thing that is good to do and take note is “Grease the driveshaft zerks”. Every oil change while your under there👍🏻

[@naythay1556]

I am new here and subscribed your channel today

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Awesome. Thank you

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Awesome, thank you.

[@aviyalproductions]

Can I use 75w 90 valvoline on my Tacoma 2019

[@timfrancis6774]

kelly, can i ask you a question? its about my tacoma. only starts with remote start/alarm which i dislike. when i put key in ignition clicks like dead battery when i push to start truck remotely starts right up where should i start to look?

[@Beacon_Offroad]

I'd guess it's something with the ignition or key. Obviously the starting system works because it starts with the remote. What year is your truck. Is your remote start after market?

[@randyroth383]

You don't use friction modifier in the rear end it needs it it can burn up the clutch pads ✌️

[@Beacon_Offroad]

True, but only on limited slip diffs. Also, you dont use friction modifier in GL5 synthetic fluid. Also, this has a locking differential. ✌️

[@loboman59]

Question: should the truck be driven around a little bit to warm fluids up before draining, or can it be done cold... currently outside temps are about 35-40 overnight here where I live.

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Sure why not. If not it just may take a minute or two more to drain when it's cold. Fluid is a bit thicker when cold. In the end if it's drained, it's drained.

[@XBrandonLeeX765]

Hi, I appreciate you creating this video. Question, I have a 2018 Tacoma with the 2.7 4 cylinder engine. Most of the information I find, is on the V6. Being that I have the base model rear wheel drive. Do I have to worry about the transfer case? Correct me if I’m wrong, I don’t have a front differential since it’s not 4 wheel drive? I’m really motivated to replace the differential fluid & transmission fluid. I drive from Florida to Georgia, quite often. I already have 25k on odometer. Currently, I change my own oil. Also do you have link to pump? Thanks in advance!

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Hi, since its a 2wd there isnt a transfer case. You only have to worry about trans fluid and rear diff. Sorry no link as I have a more expensive pump. Just search for a bottle pump, there cheaper.

[@XBrandonLeeX765]

Carcraft Autotech Thank you for clarifying everything. Much appreciated!

[@rockbay79]

Great Video! However, if I may make a suggestion, to add even more quality to your videos. I would recommend you make two improvements. First, please use the Torque wrench. This is very important for beginners. I know you know the "feel" but the younger people will not. Second, I would research the correct, exact measurements for fluids. Example, this vehicle uses 6 quarts of motor oil, for this size engine. I think this would really help others. Again, great detail showing the drain and fill plugs locations.

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Sounds good. I'll keep that in mind for the next one.

[@joeleone6276]

Thank you. There's a real reason why torque wrenches are suggested!

[@timh8065]

The shops in my area want at least $250 to change the front and rear diff and transfer case. I also have a 2015 Taco TRD Sport. The book calls for 75W-85 for the differentials. Can 75W-90 be substituted?

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Whenever possible always use what's recommended. But in reality this probably wont make much difference and work fine.

[@rsg1963]

Thanks for the info! You should link to the products you use, maybe make a couple bucks along the way. You're, in a way, 'selling' them anyway, may as well cast your line into the pool.

[@projectponderer]

My 01 has the factory rear diff lock (button) do I need a specific gear oil or just synthetic 75w90? Thanks

[@Beacon_Offroad]

If your curious about any fluids for any vehicle, go to amsoil.com and use site. We use it daily at the shop. Tells for fluid types, specs etc...for every vehicle and year.

[@CarlosLopez-fu2lk]

How much olí u put in differencial in a tacoma prerruner 2005.

[@dartox3038]

It would be helpful to give the specs for replacement washers (size and type) to buy with the oil purchase, thanks!

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Ill be honest, I truly dont even know. I'm sure a online search or parts store would have the answer for you.

[@rubenmartinezgomez2187]

Hello, both differentials (rear/front) and transfer case use the same oil (fluid)? I have a 2015 Taco TRD Sport 4x2. Thanks.

[@Beacon_Offroad]

If you have a 4x2 you don't have a transfer case or front diff.

[@brucesimms4862]

My 10 mm hex drain plug on my 06 tundra is stripped. Suggestions on how to proceed? Why wouldn't they use a normal bolt headed plug? Thank you.

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Watch this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/roaolWOvn7p9asU

[@LifeIsGood143]

Rear and front diff oil is 75w90 what is the transfer case oil ?

[@efil4kizum]

is the transfer case a different fluid than what goes into the rear diff?? it looks to be a diffrent kind of gear oil to me. TY

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Its depends. There are a few different specs listed for rear diff fluid. The transfer case is 75/90 which is one of the fluids for the rear diff.

[@thomaslam6821]

🥰🥰🥰👍👍👍

[@danmayer6933]

Great video. Can I get away with 1 quart of Transfer case fluid or do I need to buy 2 quarts to cover 1.1q as specified?

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Thanks. Its really close. I dont quite recall. Precisely. If your doing a diff you'll have some extra.

[@danmayer6933]

@@Beacon_Offroad So it’s ok to use a little 75w85 from diffs in the transfer case with the specified 75w90?

[@Beacon_Offroad]

@@danmayer6933 Ya, it wont make any difference.

[@golfshirtshooter633]

I’ve watched a lot of your videos and you do a great job. Question about transfer case oil... I see you’re using a 75w-90 in the TC. I have a 2019 Tacoma that calls for SAE 75W only. Many threads I’ve read has differing opinions but many say that 75w-90 is fine in the TC. I’m certain that you’re more familiar with Tacoma TCs than I am. Could you offer me any insight on this? I’d prefer to put 75w-90 Mobil 1 in both diffs and the TC but want to be sure I’m not at risk of inducing a problem. Thanks!

[@anchormanronburgandy]

I'm curious about this as well. Last time I changed mine I used Valvoline 75w-90 in everything because up until this video thats what I thought was the right thing to do... Moving forward, Royal Purple is the way to go btw

[@charlesbarkwell7693]

www.alldatadiy.com has the majority of you guys answers for ALL of the Fluids that come with your vehicle. This is the DIY Version. The Pro Version of All Data would give you a Heart Attack.....You'll learn so much about your vehicle. $29.95 yearly. Even when you've retrieved your Check Engine Light Code , it'll have the Possible Faults for that DTC ( Diagnostic Trouble Code ) Automotive Professional background Southern California

[@yzrippin]

@@anchormanronburgandy correct as of date the only three companies making proper fluid for the 3rd gen Tacoma transfer case are royal purple ravenol and Toyota themselves after much deliberation and looking through posts on tacomaworld I believe I have found its that other fluids are containing to high amounts of sulfur and are wearing the soft copper bushings in the transfer case rapidly most people are experiencing failures within two years or 20,000 miles of changing their fluid.

[@thenaturecoastdogtrainer8258]

@@yzrippin the car care nut states you can use 75/90 in the transfer case no problem

[@pault1439]

@@yzrippin Redline has OE compatible fluids

[@TC-rk9vu]

Kelly your video is awesome but please tell me what year Tacoma that is . Thank you

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Thank you, this is a 2015. But honestly nothings really changed. My 98 4runner and 2020 tacoma are the same.

[@josephgonzales3857]

Wouldn't hurt to check the air vent valve while your at it this.is one part a lot people over look

[@Donkarnage223]

is it a must to use the toyota transfer case oil in my 2017 trd OR? i bought the redline 75w90 gear oil for the transfer case and i am now having second thoughts with all the research i have done. i saw you used the mobil 1 75w90 but you have a 2nd gen. think it'll be ok with the redline?

[@Beacon_Offroad]

No it's not a must. Honestly from my experiences either will be fine. Synthetic fluids will be perfectly fine.

[@Donkarnage223]

@@Beacon_Offroad thank you much!!

[@robertdutka3409]

What cleaning fluid do you use in the pump sprayer?

[@Beacon_Offroad]

Bulk brake clean. You can buy it in aerosol cans.