How often should differential fluid be changed on an Acura RDX?
Plan to change the differential fluid roughly every 60,000 miles under normal driving conditions. If you regularly tow, drive in extreme heat, or operate in harsh environments, consider changing it around 30,000 miles. Always verify the exact interval for your model year in the owner’s manual or with your Acura dealer.
The Acura RDX’s SH-AWD system uses gear oil in both the front and rear differentials. The maintenance schedule emphasizes periodic replacement rather than a “lifetime fill,” with intervals that can vary by year, driving conditions, and climate. Check your manual and consult a dealer for year-specific guidance.
Recommended maintenance intervals
Below is a concise guideline based on common intervals from Acura’s manuals and service literature. Exact numbers can vary by year and market.
- Normal driving: Change the differential fluid for both front and rear differentials roughly every 60,000 miles (96,000 km).
- Severe driving or special conditions: If you tow a trailer, drive in hot climates, on steep grades, in dusty/off-road environments, or frequently haul heavy loads, consider changing the differential fluid around 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or follow your dealer’s recommendation.
- First-time service reminder: If you are unsure about the last change, schedule service around the 60,000-mile mark and adjust based on your driving pattern.
As always, verify the exact interval for your model year and region with the owner's manual or a certified Acura technician.
Signs the differential fluid may need changing
Watch for indicators that the differential fluid is degraded or low, which can help prevent drivetrain damage.
- Fluid that appears dark or burnt and has a pungent odor, or metal particles on the drain plug.
- Leaks or wet spots around the differential seals or on the ground beneath the vehicle.
- Unusual noises such as whining, clunking, or grinding from the differential, especially during acceleration or cornering.
- Excessive heat in the differential area or reduced AWD performance.
- Low fluid level detected during routine checks or service intervals.
If you notice any of these signs, have a qualified technician inspect and replace the differential fluid as needed to protect the drivetrain.
What to expect during service
When servicing the differentials, technicians typically drain old fluid, inspect seals for leaks, replace with the correct specification gear oil (usually 75W-90 GL-5-equivalent as specified by Honda/Acura), and refill to the proper level. The service is best performed by a technician who follows the vehicle’s capacity guidelines and procedures for your model year.
Summary
Regular differential fluid maintenance supports the long-term health of the Acura RDX’s SH-AWD system. For most model years, Acura recommends about 60,000 miles between changes under normal driving, with more frequent changes (around 30,000 miles) under severe usage. Use the correct gear oil specification, monitor for leaks, and consult the owner’s manual or dealer for year- and region-specific guidance. Proactive care can help prevent wear and costly repairs down the line.
