How to Pick the Right 2002 Volvo v70 XC Rear Differential Fluid
When replacing rear differential fluid in a 2002 Volvo v70 XC, begin by selecting the grade of fluid. Learn more in this guide.
Written by Rachel Rigolino
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
A 2002 Volvo v70 XC will need a rear differential fluid change at least every four years, but many car enthusiasts recommend a change every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Use an 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil that meets Volvo’s requirements. Always refer to your Volvo’s owner’s manual for recommendations for your specific vehicle.
The Volvo v70 XC is a popular wagon crossover that Volvo began producing in 1997—and due to Volvo’s extraordinary Swedish engineering, many early models are still going strong today! The v70 XC comes standard with AWD, and this means their back wheels are hard at work giving you power. Changing your differential fluid is an important part of keeping your v70 XC running well.
If you’re focused on extending your 2002 Volvo v70 XC’s life, you need to know how to keep it in the best shape.
Jerry
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, has put together this guide to replacing the Volvo v70 XC rear differential fluid so you can keep your car on the road for miles and miles. We've even thrown in a tip for how you can reduce your Volvo v70 XC insurance costs
!The best 2002 Volvo v70 XC rear differential fluid
The recommended fluid for a 2002 Volvo v70 XC has the following properties: SAE 80W-90 API GL-5. While this looks like a bunch of random letters and numbers, they all stand for a property of the fluid:
Abbreviation | What does it mean? |
|---|---|
SAE | Society of Automotive Engineers. This means the fluid conforms to the SAE guidelines. |
80W-90 | This is a viscosity grade. “W” means winter, which means the fluid will work well in low temps. |
API | This refers to the American Petroleum Institute. |
GL-5 | This indicates the level of sulfur-based modifier in the fluid. |
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversYou can use differential fluids made by different manufacturers that meet these specs. Be sure, however, to check with your owner’s manual to make sure your specific v70 XC takes this grade of fluid.
What is rear differential fluid—and why does your Volvo need it?
Your v70 XC’s rear axle turns to help your AWD to function smoothly. The
differential fluid
—AKA gear oil—lubricates the rear bearings and other gearing components in your Volvo to make sure this runs as designed, and you’ll want to be sure the fluid retains its velocity. Can you just use
engine oil
as differential oil? No. There are important differences between the oil that goes into your v70 XC’s engine and what is placed in your differential:- Differential fluid looks thicker than engine oil
- Differential fluid has different additives than engine oil
- Engine oil is typically replaced every 3,000 to 5,000 miles while differential fluid can go much longer between changes
- Differential oil is designed for gear systems—this is why it is often called gear oil
How often to change 2002 Volvo v70 XC rear differential fluid
As noted earlier, many car enthusiasts use this rule of thumb for changing rear differential fluid: every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or at least every 4 years.
The following are signs that you need to change your rear differential fluid:
- A burning smell from the back of your car
- Unusual noises from the rear, such as howling
- Vibrations in the rear of the car that seems unusual
How to change your Volvo’s differential fluid
Before undertaking any work on your Volvo, start by consulting your owner’s manual.
Here are some tools that you are likely to need if you want to attempt a
differential fluid service
yourself:- A way to secure your v70 XC, such as tire blocks
- A jack to raise your car high enough to get under
- A socket wrench set that fits your car (likely a 14 mm socket)
- Fluid transfer pump
- Drain pan
Steps | Description |
|---|---|
**Step 1:** | **Secure your v70 XC safely** with tire blocks so that it will not roll |
**Step 2:** | **Jack up** your v70 XC so that you can get underneath the wagon |
**Step 3:** | Locate the **differential drain bolt**; loosen |
**Step 4:** | **Drain the old fluid** |
**Step 5:** | Use the fluid transfer pump to **add new fluid** |
**Step 6:** | Be sure to **put the bolt back on and tighten** |
If you would rather have the differential fluid changed by a professional, RepairPal estimates the cost to be between $170 to $225.
MORE: Does Volvo have a self-driving car?
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With older cars, you have to stay on top of a regular
maintenance schedule
, which includes changing out your differential fluid every 30,000-50,000 miles. Often, even simple maintenance takes time. You have to do your research and either assemble the right tools or find a reliable mechanic. Finding affordable
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