How to Pick the Right Mazda CX-5 Rear Differential Fluid
Use the recommended rear differential fluid for a Mazda CX-5 and follow this guide to replace it.
Written by Abbey Orzech
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
The process of replacing the rear differential fluid of a
Mazda CX-5
is relatively simple as long as you have the right kind of oil. The manufacturer gives a recommended option of oil, but if you go for another kind, make sure it’s an SAE 75W-80 oil. Rear differential fluid is an important element in making sure your Mazda can take turns effectively and safely. Not many drivers think about replacing that oil as a part of their routine maintenance schedule, though.
If you’ve never thought about replacing your rear differential fluid before, let alone how to replace your rear differential fluid, the
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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+ driversThe best Mazda CX-5 rear differential fluid
The best rear differential fluid for your Mazda CX-5 comes by direct recommendation of the manufacturer: Mazda Long Life Hypoid Gear Oil SG1. You can find this product
online for around $30
.The manufacturer and Mazda forums suggest only using OEM oil, but whether it’s out of stock or out of budget, sometimes that option is available. If you do decide to go with a different kind of oil, make sure it adheres to the correct oil viscosity of 75W-80. Having a product with the wrong viscosity can leave your differential vulnerable to damage.
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What is rear differential fluid—and why does your Mazda need it?
If you’ve never replaced your rear differential fluid before, you may be in the dark about exactly what it is and why you need it.
Rear differential fluid is motor oil that lubricates and reduces wear on your Mazda’s differential gearbox, which is what allows your vehicle’s rear wheels to spin independently of one another. The torque of each rear wheel varies depending on your driving terrain, speed, and direction, so it’s important to keep these gears in working order.
How often to change Mazda CX-5 rear differential fluid
While differential fluid does not need to be tended to as often as your engine oil, it is still important to pay attention to it at semi-regular intervals. The appropriate amount of time to pass between each fluid change varies between vehicles, manufacturers, and OEM oils, but there are symptoms of bad differential fluid and the time to replace that you can keep an eye out for:
- A burning smell from the rear gearbox
- Any whirring, howling, or straining noises
- Any unusual vibrations
Keep your senses on alert for these symptoms to gauge when your Mazda may need a rear differential fluid change. However, you may wish to also simply keep track of replacing the fluid on a mileage basis, in which case it is recommended that you replace the rear differential fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
It is always a good idea to shoot for safe rather than sorry since low fluid levels can lead to your gears seizing and your wheels locking, so aim for every 30,000 miles. You can also ask a mechanic to check the rear differential fluid levels and quality during an engine oil change or other routine maintenance.
Once you require a differential oil replacement, follow the steps below!
How to change your Mazda’s differential fluid
Before beginning the actual replacement process, it’s a good idea to go over your
Mazda CX-5's owner’s manual
to be sure you’re working with what your specific vehicle needs. Next, you’ll want to gather your tools: Step 1: Position your Mazda on jack stands or a ramp so you can easily access the differential drain. Find the differential drain bolt and place your drain pan beneath it.
Step 2: Loosen and remove the drain bolt and allow the gear oil to drain completely. Replace the bolt and wipe away any excess oil.
Step 3: Once the differential is drained, find and remove the gear oil fill bolt.
Step 4: Grab your fluid transfer pump and slowly add the correct type of oil until you reach the recommended amount or, if there is no recommended amount, fill until the differential is full and gear oil begins to slightly leak out of the hole.
Step 5: Replace and tighten the gear oil fill bolt and wipe the case clean of any excess oil. And you’re done!
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