RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009) Discussion topics related to the 2004 -2009 RX330, RX350 and RX400H models

Transfer Case and Differential Oil

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Old 08-22-11, 01:28 PM
  #16  
daryll40
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Thanks for that info. The coolant info is clear. It's STILL not clear if and when to replace the other two assuming no leaks and normal levels.
Old 08-22-11, 02:38 PM
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06RXOWNER
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In a nutshell:

Lexus does not require the replacement of the differential oil or the transfer case oil if the vehicle is not driven under Special Operating Conditions.
Old 08-22-11, 02:39 PM
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daryll40
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Thank you. I see it that way too.
Old 08-22-11, 04:37 PM
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rcy
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Originally Posted by daryll40
Chris, that was very helpful. It clearly says to replace those fluids at about 40,000 miles. I wonder why the USA manuals don't address that?
My guess is, it's recommended for Canada because of our winters. However, and I've never understood why many people don't' realize this, a significant portion of the northern states get just as cold and just as bad winters as Canada.

Me personally, I would change the fluids as per the Canadian website. New fluid never hurts (and I still don't believe these automobile companies that claim 'lifetime' fluid) What that really means in my opinion is "lasts for the warranty period".

I changed the fluids in my RX400h at 11500km (mind you the 400h has a CVT and the rear wheels are driven electrically, so it's not exactly the same). At 165000km, I replaced the rear diff fluid again and the stuff that came out looked like new, but since I'm a DIY, it only cost me about $12 for two litres of fluid. I was planning on changing the CVT fluid at the same time, but a new tranny just before 160000km (under extended warranty) meant new fluid anyway.

One fluid often neglected is brake fluid, which should be changed at a certain number of miles OR a certain number of years (every two I think), due to the fact that it's hygroscopic.

Last edited by rcy; 08-22-11 at 04:43 PM.
Old 08-22-11, 07:20 PM
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RX330inFL
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Originally Posted by daryll40
Online in WHAT guide? WHERE?
In the Scheduled Maintenance Guide as I stated in that post you questioned. Came with your vehicle and is available online along with all the other Owner's Manuals from Lexus on their web site.

Originally Posted by daryll40
Look, I am NOT a DIYer. And I don't baby my cars. But I DO maintain them. I'm just an average Joe wondering when a prudent but not maintenance-crazy guy should do this stuff. ??????????????
Why are you getting angry with me? I confirmed your information, answered your question(s) and tried to clarify another member's posting by explaining what they were getting at. Everything you needed was there.

Now I remember why I do not go home to PA very often.
Old 08-22-11, 07:44 PM
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Originally Posted by RX330inFL
In the Scheduled Maintenance Guide as I stated in that post you questioned. Came with your vehicle and is available online along with all the other Owner's Manuals from Lexus on their web site.



Why are you getting angry with me? I confirmed your information, answered your question(s) and tried to clarify another member's posting by explaining what they were getting at. Everything you needed was there.

Now I remember why I do not go home to PA very often.
I did find the post a bit abrupt. Seriously, though, not everyone in PA can be like that?? Maybe send some Florida sunshine their way...
Old 08-22-11, 09:45 PM
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RX330inFL
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Originally Posted by rcy
I did find the post a bit abrupt. Seriously, though, not everyone in PA can be like that?? Maybe send some Florida sunshine their way...
Spent a few years there when I was younger. Even worked at the mill during summer breaks. Used to park my Chevelle in the mines north of Pittsburgh during the winter and drove my Tacoma around and to college. When I go back to visit family I notice the difference in attitudes.

Grumpa72 is from Pittsburgh, I think. Grumpa, folks grumpy there?

BTW, Primanti Brothers sandwiches are not all that great. Don't waste your time.
Old 08-23-11, 09:39 AM
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kickin8
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Originally Posted by rcy
One fluid often neglected is brake fluid, which should be changed at a certain number of miles OR a certain number of years (every two I think), due to the fact that it's hygroscopic.
30K miles / every 2 years ?
Old 08-23-11, 09:51 AM
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RX330inFL
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Originally Posted by kickin8
30K miles / every 2 years ?
Service Guide says every 30,000 Miles or 24 Months.
Old 05-16-13, 10:56 PM
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JONIS250
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Originally Posted by 06RXOWNER
For those driving conditions other than the Lexus specified "Special Operating Conditions":

Coolant - Replace every 100,000 miles and every 50,000 miles thereafter.
Transfer Case Oil - Inspect for leaks and check level every 15,000 miles.
Rear Differential Oil - Inspect for leaks and check level every 15,000 miles.

The 2006 Lexus maintenance information was provided in an owner's manual supplement, which was placed in each vehicle (along with the owner's manual and other publications).
I have. 2004 rx330 awd. Can anyone tell me where the transfer case is? I changed the rear differential already. Do I have to change the m front too,? Thanks
Old 05-20-13, 09:08 AM
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Originally Posted by JONIS250
I have. 2004 rx330 awd. Can anyone tell me where the transfer case is? I changed the rear differential already. Do I have to change the m front too,? Thanks
my 2006 rx330, transfer case is in front of the rear differential, look for the fill plug and drain plug, should be pretty obvious. If you change your rear might as well go with the front one.
Old 05-22-13, 06:56 PM
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Originally Posted by rcy
I did find the post a bit abrupt. Seriously, though, not everyone in PA can be like that?? Maybe send some Florida sunshine their way...
We are not. Like they say, there are bad neighborhoods in the best of cities.
Old 05-27-13, 08:34 AM
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When doing these services ALWAYS LOOSEN THE FILL BOLT FIRST.

If you drain first, and the fill bolt happens to be frozen shut, you are really screwed.
Old 03-22-14, 07:01 AM
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awfulart1
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Default 2004 rx330 awd

As I understand it the transmission and front differential take the same fluid, 9 qts. and the transfer case and rear differential uses gear oil. I have seen contradictory posts on this subject and the manual does not address the issue.

I am not a diy so will have it done but like to know what the details are in any case.
Old 03-22-14, 09:11 AM
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RX330inFL
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Originally Posted by awfulart1
As I understand it the transmission and front differential take the same fluid, 9 qts. and the transfer case and rear differential uses gear oil. I have seen contradictory posts on this subject and the manual does not address the issue.

I am not a diy so will have it done but like to know what the details are in any case.

Welcome to Club Lexus, awfulart1. You have your terminology correct. See my post #6 on the following thread:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...ial-fluid.html


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