2006 4runner SR5 Do I need to change diff oil?

[southernmaryland]

Hey all.

I have the SR5 package, and did a few searches, but wasn't definitively sure that I needed to change this. I have about 72000 miles on my auto, and wanted to do this soon if I need to. If there are any links you may have or info, please let me know. My brother has a dodge ram and didn't change the fluid and his rear end locked up. Thanks.

Cheers.

 

[jimithing]

The answer to your question is probably. I think the recommended change interval is 45k miles if you don't tow. I think if you tow a lot it's every 15k miles. If you're not the original owner of the car (or even if you are) you should go register at Toyota Owners and you can see all the maintenance that's been done to your car at the dealership.

 

[Jeff T]

Change it to synthetic!!!!

 

[4RunnerFan]

Publshed interval for rear diff if you don't tow is 30k. Jimithing is correct that towing knocks the interval down to every 15k. I've read where lots of folks let it go a bit longer than this, like to 50-60k, without problems, but it sounds like you're well beyond that.

 

[utobiaus]

Concur.

 

[kai920]

Publshed interval for rear diff if you don't tow is 30k. Jimithing is correct that towing knocks the interval down to every 15k. I've read where lots of folks let it go a bit longer than this, like to 50-60k, without problems, but it sounds like you're well beyond that.

So I was just looking at this also. According to the maintenance manual, if you never tow, there isn't anything that says you need to change the diff fluid.

Please understand, that I am not saying that it shouldn't be done. Only that I can't find anything in the maintenance manual that shows any differential fluid or T-case, or ATF on the T4R should be changed unless towing is involved. Not even at 30k. Where did you find this published information?

Inspect, yes. Replace? Nothing there.

The only thing that does show for the Toyota Truck/ SUV manual is LSD fluid change, looks like every 30k. This is for trucks like the Taco that have an LSD.

 

[-06T4R-]

I bought the same vehicle with 53k and I changed the diff fluids for peace of mind. The rear diff fluid was black and smelled burnt. After I changed it to synthetic I noticed a substantially better ride quality.

There is a great write up in the maintenance section (stickies at the top). It took me about 20 minutes to change.