What kind of differential fluid does a 2017 Toyota Tacoma take?
The 2017 Toyota Tacoma, a popular mid-size pickup truck, requires a specific type of differential fluid to ensure proper operation and longevity of its drivetrain components. According to the manufacturer's recommendations, the 2017 Toyota Tacoma should use a limited-slip differential fluid that meets the API GL-5 specification.
Differential Fluid Type
The 2017 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a rear differential that utilizes a limited-slip design. This type of differential is designed to distribute power more evenly between the rear wheels, improving traction and handling, especially in off-road or slippery conditions. The recommended differential fluid for the 2017 Tacoma is a GL-5 rated, limited-slip gear oil.
Fluid Capacity and Replacement
The rear differential in the 2017 Toyota Tacoma has a fluid capacity of approximately 3.5 pints (1.65 liters). Toyota recommends changing the differential fluid every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months, whichever comes first, as part of the vehicle's regular maintenance schedule.
Fluid Specifications
- Fluid Type: GL-5 rated, limited-slip gear oil
- Fluid Capacity: 3.5 pints (1.65 liters)
- Fluid Change Interval: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
It's important to use the correct differential fluid specified by Toyota to ensure the proper operation and longevity of the 2017 Tacoma's drivetrain components. Consult your owner's manual or a qualified Toyota technician for any additional guidance on maintaining your vehicle's differential system.
What kind of rear diff fluid does a 2017 Tacoma take?
Currently, in the United States, Toyota recommends a 75W85 gear oil that also meets GL5 standards to be used in the rear differential of 2009-2023 Toyota Tacoma models.
What type of fluid goes in the rear differential?
Think engine oil but thicker; it's similar to fluid that's used to lubricate manual transmission gears. There are two basic types of differential fluid: Mineral oil, which is a natural, crude oil-based fluid. Synthetic differential fluid, which is created with chemicals and can be fine-tuned for optimal performance.
How much fluid does a Toyota Tacoma rear differential hold?
These rear-end differentials had varying fluid capacities from 2.9 - 4.0 liters (3.06 - 4.22 quarts). Models without the differential lock will use 2.9 - 3.1 liters (3.06 - 3.27 quarts) and models with rear differential lock will use around 3.8 - 4.0 liters (4.01 - 4.22 quarts).
What happens if you never change differential fluid?
Most differentials need a fluid change at about 50,000 miles. If left too long or if the fluid starts to run low, the differential will become noisy and can eventually fail. If that happens, the gears can seize, locking up the rear wheels and potentially causing a lot of damage or even an accident.
What kind of oil does a Toyota rear differential take?
The 3rd generation Toyota Tundra models introduced in 2022 also currently recommend a 75W-85 GL-5 gear oil for use in the rear differential. The gear oil part number is 08885-02506.
How often does Toyota recommend differential fluid change?
For top performance and reliability, we recommend exchanging the differential fluid every 30,000 miles.
What fluid should never be used in a rear differential?
Never, under any circumstances, put engine oil in your differential. This will result in devastating damages to your engine. Engine oil is much different than gear oil, mostly it cannot withstand high pressure.
What are the symptoms of low differential fluid?
Hearing a whirring, whining or howling sound, which may indicate the parts, clutches, gears and diff are not properly lubricated through insufficient clean oil. Feeling unusual vibrations, like a chatter, which is caused by a number of mechanical issues, including needing diff oil.
When should the rear differential fluid be changed on a Toyota Tacoma?
When should you change your Toyota Tacoma rear differential fluid? Following the manufacturer's recommendations is always the best practice, but under normal driving conditions, changing the rear differential gear oil every 50,000 to 60,000 miles is generally sufficient.
What kind of rear differential fluid does a 2017 Toyota Tacoma take?
75W85 gear oil
We recommend using only a high-quality synthetic based 75W85 gear oil specifically for these Toyota Tacoma trucks. See our online catalog to learn more about the performance and heavy-duty benefits of the truck specific Toyota Tacoma rear differential fluids.
