What kind of fluid does a Acura MDX rear differential take?

Acura MDX Rear Differential Fluid Type
The rear differential of the Acura MDX requires Acura All-Wheel Drive Fluid (DPSF), which is specially designed for Acura vehicles and provides optimal lubrication and cooling for the gears, bearings, and other internal components. It is crucial to change this fluid regularly to protect the differential assembly and prevent potential damage, with a recommended interval of approximately every 30,000 to 50,000 miles .
For the Acura MDX with the SH-AWD system, it may require up to three quarts of the Acura All-Wheel Drive Fluid for a complete refill. The fill level is considered full when the gear oil begins to drip out of the fill hole.
It’s important to note that using the correct fluid is essential for the proper functioning and longevity of the rear differential, and it’s recommended to adhere to Acura’s specifications for the best results .

What kind of fluid goes in a 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.

When should I change the rear differential fluid in my Acura MDX?

If you regularly drive your vehicle under these conditions, have the differential fluid changed at 7,500 miles (12,000 km), then every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

What happens if you use the wrong differential fluid?

They found that whoever replaced the oil in the differential with the wrong viscosity was directly responsible for the damage caused to the front differential assembly and the four-wheel-drive (clutch) assembly.

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. Therefore, engine oil should never be used in place of gear oil.

What is differential fluid in Acura MDX?

The Front differential on some AWD and 4WD Honda and Acura vehicles uses hypoid gear oil and this can vary from year to year. If the front differential is separate from the transmission; Honda specifies 75W90 gear oil with the GL-5 additive.

What happens if you don’t change differential fluid?

If you never change your differential fluid, you will start to notice strange sounds and bad smells from your car, before your diff will inevitably fail. This is not only costly to fix, and highly preventable, but can also be dangerous as you won’t be as in control of turning your vehicle, especially at high speeds.

How often should you change differential fluid Acura MDX?

15,000 miles
The rear differential fluid will be changed at 15,000 miles also. An Acura mechanic will check the car’s tires’ condition and rotate them if necessary to make sure they wear evenly.

How much fluid does a Acura MDX front differential hold?

Need 2.6 quarts for a change. Front Differential (Transfer Case): SAE 90 or SAE 80W-90 viscosity hypoid gear oil, API service classified GL4 or GL5 only.

Can you put ATF in a rear differential?

Use ATF in your rear differential housing and you very likely soon will find yourself in a pinch. Absolutely. In fact when I was working at the school bus garage we used to use ATF for almost everything. It helped save a lot of money and keep the kids on their way.

When should I change rear differential fluid Acura MDX?

If you regularly drive your vehicle under these conditions, have the differential fluid changed at 7,500 miles (12,000 km), then every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).