To change gear oil on a Toyota RAV4 with AWD, support the vehicle level on jack stands, remove the fill plug first (so that you can refill it), then the drain plug, let the oil drain, refit the drain plug with a new gasket if needed, and refill with the gear oil specified in the manual until it reaches the fill hole. Front-wheel-drive RAV4s have no rear differential. Torque figures, plug tools and the oil grade vary by model year, so use the factory service manual. Related: how to change engine oil on a Toyota RAV4 and how to change the oil filter on a Toyota RAV4.
Preparing Your RAV4 for a Gear Oil Change
Park on level ground, set the parking brake, and raise and support the rear on jack stands. Check the manual for the fluid type and the capacity. Open the fill plug before the drain plug, so that you know you can refill the unit.
Essential Tools and Materials for the Job
- The gear oil specified in the manual
- The right sockets or bits for the plugs, and a torque wrench
- New plug gaskets if required
- A drain pan, a fluid pump, jack stands and gloves
How to Change Gear Oil on a Toyota RAV4: Draining the Old Oil
- Open the fill plug.
- Place the pan under the drain plug and remove it.
- Let the oil drain fully.
- Clean the plug and refit it with a new gasket to the specified torque.
Dispose of the old oil at a recycling center.
Fill the Differential With Fresh Gear Oil
Pump the new oil into the fill hole until it just starts to run out, then refit the fill plug to the specified torque.
Top Tips for Maintaining Cleanliness and Safety During Gear Oil Changes
- Keep dirt out of the fill hole.
- Wipe up spills at once, and keep oil off the brakes and tires.
- Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
How to Check and Maintain Proper Fluid Levels?
The level should be at the bottom edge of the fill hole when the vehicle is level. Check for seepage after a drive.
Troubleshooting Common Issues During Gear Oil Changes
- Stuck plug: use the correct tool and penetrating oil. Do not round off the plug.
- Leak after the change: check the gasket and the torque.
- Noise afterwards: check the oil grade and level.
Related reading:
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Change the Differential Fluid on My Toyota RAV4?
Follow the interval in the maintenance guide for your model year, and shorten it for towing or severe use.
Can You Change Gear Oil Yourself?
Many owners do, if they have the right tools and follow the factory procedure. Otherwise, use a shop.
What Kind of Fluid Does a Toyota RAV4 Rear Differential Take?
The type and viscosity are in the manual for your model year. Use only the specified gear oil.
How Often Should the Transmission Fluid Be Changed in a Toyota RAV4?
It depends on the model year and use. See the maintenance guide.
Conclusion
To change gear oil on a Toyota RAV4, open the fill plug first, drain, refill with the specified oil, and torque the plugs properly.
