How to Check the Rear Differential Fluid Level in a 2002 Tacoma

When performing routine maintenance tasks on your 2002 Toyota Tacoma, you should always check the rear differential to ensure that the fluid level is at a proper level. Toyota recommends that you check your Tacoma's rear differential fluid levels annually or every 15,000 miles. If you discover that your vehicle’s rear differential is leaking fluid, you should have the vehicle inspected and repaired as soon as possible before extensive repairs become necessary as a result from fluid starvation.

Things You'll Need

• 3/4-inch drive ratchet set with breaker bar
• 15/16-inch drive socket
• 3/4-inch drive socket
• Funnel
• 75-90W synthetic gear oil

Instructions

1. Locate the rear differential of your Toyota Tacoma. The rear differential is located in the middle of the rear wheel axle, connects to drive shaft leading from the transmission and features a large, circular cover with a plug on the passenger side. Park the vehicle on a flat surface and place the transmission in park (automatic transmissions) or set the parking brake (manual transmissions) before climbing underneath the rear of the vehicle.

2. Grab a breaker bar, 3/4-inch ratchet and 15/16-inch socket, climb underneath the rear of the vehicle and locate the differential fill plug on the passenger side of the differential’s gear cover. Fit the ratchet and socket on the drain plug and turn counterclockwise to remove it. You may need to use a long breaker bar to gain the leverage needed to budge the plug.

3. Stick your pinky finger into the drain plug hole to feel for fluid present inside the differential unit. The fluid level should be barely below the fill plug opening. If you do not feel any fluid present, place a funnel inside the hole and top off the differential with 75-80W synthetic gear oil (certain gear oil containers feature a special spout that will eliminate the need for a funnel).

4. Replace the fill plug after checking and filling the fluid. Use your fingers to install the plug initially and finish tightening with your ratchet and appropriate socket.

References

• "Toyota Tacoma, 4 Runner & T100 Haynes Repair Manual"; John Haynes; 2005