How much rear diff capacity does a Honda CR-V have?
The rear differential capacity for most Honda CR-V all-wheel-drive (AWD) models is about 0.64 US quarts (0.6 liters). Two-wheel-drive CR-Vs do not have a separate rear differential. For the exact specification on your specific year and trim, consult the owner's manual or Honda’s official service data.
What is rear differential capacity and why it matters
Rear differential capacity is the amount of gear oil the rear differential housing can hold. Getting the fill level right is essential for proper lubrication, cooling, and smooth power delivery, especially on AWD models that distribute torque to both front and rear wheels.
Is your CR-V wired for a rear differential?
Only the all-wheel-drive versions of the CR-V use a rear differential. Front-wheel-drive models rely on the front axle and transaxle lubrication, so a separate rear-differential capacity does not apply.
Typical capacity by configuration
Use this as a quick reference, but always verify against the official manual for your exact year and trim.
- All-wheel-drive (AWD) Honda CR-V: approximately 0.64 US quarts (0.6 liters) of gear oil.
- Two-wheel-drive (FWD) Honda CR-V: no rear differential; capacity not applicable.
In practice, many technicians fill the rear differential to the level of the fill plug. If you’re performing a drain-and-fill service, plan for roughly 0.6–0.8 quarts depending on whether you’re replacing only the drained oil or performing a full fill after draining the housing.
How to confirm the specification for your exact vehicle
Because production changes can affect capacity, check the materials below to confirm the exact figure for your year and VIN.
- Owner's manual, typically in the Maintenance or Specifications section.
- Honda's official service data sheets or the HondaTechInfo portal accessed by dealers and service professionals.
- Your Honda dealer’s service department or a qualified mechanic with access to Honda service data.
Bottom line: the rear differential capacity is typically around 0.64 quarts for AWD CR-V models, while FWD models do not have a rear differential. Always verify with documentation for your exact year and configuration.
Summary
For most AWD Honda CR-Vs, plan on about 0.64 quarts (0.6 liters) of gear oil in the rear differential. If your vehicle is FWD, there is no rear differential to service. Always refer to the owner's manual or a Honda service data sheet for the precise specification of your year and trim.
How much fluid goes in the rear differential?
The amount of rear differential fluid needed depends on your vehicle, but it typically ranges from 1.5 to 3 quarts for standard vehicles, with some larger or specialized differentials requiring more. The most accurate way to determine the correct amount is to check your vehicle's owner's manual, as some models can be very specific. For a general guideline, fill the differential until the fluid just begins to trickle out of the fill hole when the vehicle is level.
How to find the correct amount
- Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for the exact capacity for your specific vehicle.
- Use the fill-until-it-flows method: This is the most common and recommended method for a DIY fluid change. After draining the old fluid, refill the differential with new fluid until it starts to flow out of the fill hole.
- Purchase a slightly larger quantity: It's a good idea to buy a little extra fluid (like 3 quarts instead of 2) to ensure you have enough, even if the final amount is slightly less than you purchased.
This video demonstrates how to check and refill your differential with fluid: 1mGetty's GarageYouTube · Mar 2, 2020
What you'll need
- Rear differential fluid: The type (e.g., 75W-90 or 75W-140) and amount needed will depend on your vehicle. Using the correct weight and a synthetic oil is often recommended.
- Oil pump: To transfer the fluid into the differential.
- Socket set or wrench: To remove and tighten the fill and drain plugs.
- Container: To catch the old fluid.
How much to change rear differential fluid on a Honda CR-V?
The cost to change the rear differential fluid on a Honda CR-V ranges from approximately $80 to $270, depending on the service provider. Dealerships may charge between $197 and $270, while independent shops and quick-lube services like Jiffy Lube often have lower prices, with some quoted between $84 and $150.
Cost breakdown
- Dealerships: Expect to pay between $197 and $270.
- Independent shops: Prices can range from $84 to $150, with some independent or quick-lube services quoting this price.
- Other options:
- Some sources suggest a price of around $150-$250 at quick-lube places like Jiffy Lube, but this can vary.
- Some services, like Valvoline, may offer savings of 30% to 50% compared to a dealership.
- Factors affecting cost: The price can be influenced by the specific model year, location, and the service provider you choose.
Why is the cost different?
- Dealerships often have higher labor rates than independent shops or quick-lube services.
- The cost of the specific fluid needed for your CR-V can also play a role.
- Some services may include additional checks or services, which can add to the final bill.
- If you have a coupon or a maintenance plan, the final cost could be lower.
What is the torque spec for the differential fluid in a Honda CR-V?
And that is how you'll change the fluid on a differential for a Honda CRV 2017 to 2022.
How much rear differential fluid does a Honda CR-V take?
The Honda CR-V rear differential fluid capacity is 1.32 US quarts (1.247L1.247 cap L1.247𝐿) for a drain and fill, and the correct fluid is Honda DPSF-II. You can confirm the correct level by filling the differential until the fluid begins to overflow from the fill plug, which ensures it's completely full.
This video shows how to change the rear differential fluid in a 2017-2022 Honda CR-V: 1m603 Mechanic vidsYouTube · Apr 8, 2025
- Capacity: 1.32 US quarts (1.247 L).
- Fluid type: Honda DPSF-II (Dual Pump System Fluid-II).
- How to fill: Use a fluid pump to fill until the fluid starts to come out of the fill plug, then stop. This ensures the correct level.
- Required tools/parts:
- Honda DPSF-II fluid
- Fluid pump or a similar tool for filling
- New crush washers for the fill and drain plugs
- 3/8" ratchet
- Jack and jack stands
- Drain pan
