Manual transmission, transfer case and differential lubricant level check
(every 15,000 miles or 12 months)
Note: The front and rear differential lubricant should be changed every 15,000 miles or 12 months on vehicles with diesel engines or any vehicle used in rough service conditions such as frequent towing or off-road use.
Manual transmission
1. The manual transmission has a filler plug which must be removed to check the lubricant level (see illustration). If the vehicle is raised to gain access to the plug, support it safely on jackstands – DO NOT crawl under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack! The vehicle must be level, or the check may be inaccurate.
22.1 The manual transmission check/fill plug is located on the side of the case
2. Using the appropriate wrench, unscrew the plug from the transmission.
3. Use your little finger to reach inside the housing to feel the lubricant level. The level should be at or near the bottom of the plug hole. If it isn’t, add the recommended lubricant through the plug hole with a syringe or squeeze bottle.
4. Install and tighten the plug. Check for leaks after the first few miles of driving.
Transfer case (4WD models)
5. The transfer case lubricant level is checked by removing the fill plug (see illustration).
22.5 The transfer case fill (A) and drain (B) plugs are located on the rear of the transfer case
6. After removing the plug, reach inside the hole. The lubricant level should be just at the bottom of the hole. If not, add the appropriate lubricant through the opening.
Differential
Note: 4WD vehicles have two differentials; one in the front as well as one in the rear – check the lubricant level in both differentials.
7. The differential lubricant level is checked by removing a filler plug from the differential cover (see illustrations). If the vehicle is raised to gain access to the plug, support it safely on jackstands – DO NOT crawl under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack! The vehicle must be level, or the check may be inaccurate.
22.7a If the differential has a rubber plug, you can remove the plug by prying it out with a screwdriver
22.7b If the differential has a threaded plug, use a 3/8-inch drive ratchet to unscrew it
8. With the differential cold, remove the fill plug. The lubricant should be level with the bottom of the fill plug hole.
9. If the level is low, add the recommended lubricant through the filler plug hole with a pump, syringe or squeeze bottle.
10. Install the plug and check for leaks after the first few miles of driving.