How much rear differential fluid does a 2004 Toyota Sequoia hold?
Answer: Approximately 1.9 quarts (about 1.8 liters) of gear oil for the rear differential, with a full drain-and-fill typically requiring around 2 quarts. Exact capacity depends on the axle configuration and whether a limited-slip differential is installed.
This article explains how the rear differential capacity can vary in the 2004 Sequoia, outlines typical ranges by axle type, and provides practical steps for checking and refilling to factory specifications.
Rear differential design and capacity basics
The 2004 Sequoia uses a solid rear axle with a 9.5-inch differential carrier. Depending on the build, the vehicle may employ an open differential or a limited-slip differential (LSD). The fill level is reached at the fill plug, and capacity is cited for a complete drain and refill to that level.
Capacity ranges by axle configuration
Before listing the typical figures, note that exact values can vary slightly by axle code and the presence of a locker or LSD. The ranges below reflect common service data and owner reports for the 2004 Sequoia.
- Open differential (non-LSD): about 1.8–1.9 quarts (roughly 1.7–1.8 liters)
- Limited-slip differential (LSD) variant: about 2.0 quarts (roughly 1.9 liters)
When planning maintenance, use the exact capacity listed for your vehicle in the owner's manual or a dealership service bulletin based on the VIN and axle code.
How to check and refill the rear differential
To ensure the correct fill, follow a standard drain-and-fill procedure using the recommended gear oil (commonly 75W-90 GL-5). The steps below outline a typical process for a 2004 Sequoia rear axle.
- Warm up the drivetrain to operating temperature to make the oil flow more easily.
- Safely lift and support the vehicle; place a drain pan underneath the differential.
- Remove the fill plug first; if oil runs out, the level is correct; if not, proceed to drain.
- Remove the drain plug and allow the differential oil to drain completely.
- Reinstall the drain plug with a new washer and torque to spec.
- Refill through the fill hole until oil begins to seep from the fill opening or reaches the recommended level; reinstall the fill plug and torque to spec.
Note: Some LSD-equipped units require a friction modifier additive when using certain synthetic gear oils. Check the owner’s manual or service bulletin for the exact requirement and oil type.
Maintenance tips
Inspect for metal shavings during drainage, replace seals if necessary, and keep a maintenance log. Dispose of old gear oil according to local regulations.
Summary
The 2004 Toyota Sequoia rear differential typically holds about 1.8–2.0 quarts of gear oil, with slight variation by axle type. For precise capacity, consult the service manual or a Toyota dealer using your VIN to confirm the exact figure and fill procedure.
How much rear differential fluid does a Toyota Sequoia hold?
The Toyota Sequoia's rear differential fluid capacity varies by model year. For 2000-2007 models, the capacity is approximately 1.151.151.15 liters (1.211.211.21 quarts), while for 2007-2022 models, it is 1.551.551.55 liters (1.631.631.63 quarts). The specific capacity depends on the model year and if it has a limited-slip differential, so always check your owner's manual.
Capacity by model year
- 2000-2007: Approximately 1.151.151.15 liters (1.211.211.21 quarts)
- 2007-2022: Approximately 1.551.551.55 liters (1.631.631.63 quarts)
What to do
- Check your model year: The capacity differs between model generations, so confirm the specific year of your Sequoia.
- Refer to the owner's manual: For the most accurate information for your specific vehicle, consult the owner's manual.
- Have the correct fluid on hand: You will need a hypoid gear oil that meets API GL-5 specifications, such as SAE 75W-90.
How much fluid does a 2004 Toyota Tundra rear differential take?
The 2004 Toyota Tundra rear differential fluid capacity is approximately 3.15 to 3.8 quarts, depending on whether it has an open or limited-slip differential, and whether it's a 2WD or 4WD model. A 2WD model with an open differential holds about 3.83.83.8 liters, while a 4WD model holds about 3.53.53.5 liters, and both are filled to the level of the fill/check plug.
You can watch this video to learn how to change the rear differential fluid on a 2004 Toyota Tundra: 1mJustCarPeopleThingsYouTube · Jan 7, 2024
Rear differential fluid capacity by model
- 2WD with Open Differential: 3.83.83.8 liters ( 4.0space 4.0 4.0 quarts)
- 2WD with Limited-Slip Differential (LSD): 3.153.153.15 liters ( 3.3space 3.3 3.3 quarts)
- 4WD with Open Differential: 3.53.53.5 liters ( 3.7space 3.7 3.7 quarts)
- 4WD with Limited-Slip Differential (LSD): 2.852.852.85 liters ( 3.0space 3.0 3.0 quarts)
Important considerations
- Fill to level: You do not need to fill the entire capacity. Instead, fill the differential with fluid until it begins to flow out of the fill/check plug hole, then stop.
- Synthetic fluid: Toyota recommends using synthetic oil, as stated by AMSOIL.
- Fluid type: Use a hypoid gear oil (GL-5) of the appropriate viscosity, such as 80W-90 or 75W-85, as recommended by Toyota.
How much fluid does a Toyota rear differential hold?
3.8-4.0 liters
Toyota Tacoma Rear Differential Fluid Capacity
With rear differential lock: 3.8-4.0 liters (4.01-4.22 quarts)
How many quarts does a 2004 Toyota Sequoia take?
Oil Grade: SL
| Viscosity: | 10W-30 (Above -18°C) 5W-30 (All TEMPS) - SAE 5W-30 is preferred. |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 6.6 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level. |
| Torque: | 29 ft/lbs (Oil Drain Plug) |
