When replacing the rear differential fluid on your 2015 GMC Sierra 1500, you’ll need to use SAE 75W-85 API GL-5 synthetic gear lubricant to ensure a job well done. You should aim to get it replaced (or at least checked by a mechanic) around every 30,000 miles driven.
GMC trucks are well known and beloved by car owners who need to get the job done. But, a huge part of making sure that your truck is working for you is making sure that all of its fluid levels are in check—including the rear differential fluid.
Jerry
, America's favorite app for all things car insurance
and car maintenance-related, has put together this handy little guide to everything you need to know about what rear differential fluid is, what it does for your 2015 Sierra 1500, and how to replace it. We'll also give you a tip for saving on your GMC Sierra 1500 insurance costs
.The best 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 rear differential fluid
If you want the top-of-the-line, gold standard rear differential fluid for your 2015 GMC Sierra 1500, look no further than SAE 75W-85 API GL-5 synthetic gear lubricant. It’s not a brand, per se, but it is the right kind of lubricant your rear axle needs. There are a lot of numbers and letters there, so let’s break down exactly what they mean.
In recent years, conventional oils have fallen out of fashion in car manufacturing in favor of synthetic ones. Why? Not only do synthetic oils gunk up far less than conventional ones, but they last longer and function better in both hot and cold temperatures.
The “75W-85” indicates the level of viscosity, while the “GL-5” means that it’s got just enough sulfur additives to get the job done. Here are a couple of options available for purchase online:
What is rear differential fluid—and why does your GMC need it?
Your car needs so many different kinds of oils, that it can be difficult to track all of them. If you’ve never even heard of the rear differential fluid, here’s exactly what it does for your GMC.
Rear differential fluid is the unsung hero of your 2015 GMC Sierra 1500. This specific kind of motor oil lubricates the rear axle to not only keep all the rear components from overheating but allows your rear wheels to operate at different speeds.
It’s especially important for heavy-duty trucks like the GMC Sierra 1500, as it allows your truck to drive smoothly over bumpy terrain.
How often to change 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 rear differential fluid
If you’ve never even heard of rear differential fluid before right now, you’ve probably got no clue when you’re supposed to replace it. But you’re not alone in that—the owner's manual
does not even mention it! Here’s what keep an ear (and nose) out for when it comes to replacing your rear differential fluid: Weird strained, whirring noises
A gearbox emitting a harsh, burnt smell
Generally, you should replace your rear differential fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles driven. But, for GMC Sierra owners, it’s recommended that you get your rear differential oil replaced around 30,000 miles, and have your mechanic take a look at it during any routine maintenance
service. How to change your GMC’s rear differential fluid
Luckily, changing your GMC’s rear differential is a straightforward process you can do yourself! All you’ll need are your car keys, a tire iron, a bucket to catch any excess oil, and the rear differential oil.
Step 1: Use your GMC car key to remove the tire lock from the passenger side of the rear bumper.
Step 2: With the tire lock mechanic off of your bumper, use the tire iron to lower the spare tire and set it aside to access the drain plug.
Step 3: Set up your bucket beneath the underbelly of your truck so you don’t make a total mess of your garage floor!
Step 4: Remove the drain plug and crack the pan bolts until you see the old fluid begin to pour out into the bucket. This step can get a little smelly, but that’s just because of the sulfur additives in the oil.
Step 5: With most of the fluid drained out, it’s time to actually remove the pan bolts and brake cable hardware and set them aside.
Step 6: Reattach the gasket and pan, and tighten the bolts in a star-shaped pattern to make sure they’re securely on.
Step 7: Grab your rear differential oil and fill until you see some oil dripping out of the drain hole. When that happens, it’s time to plug the hole back up, reattach the spare tire and brake cable hardware, and that’s it!
How to find affordable GMC insurance
Cars are complex machines, so anything straightforward—like replacing the rear differential fluid—is a total relief. And, if you’re looking for the easiest way to save money on your GMC’s insurance policy
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