Front Differential Gear Oil Inspection & Change

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Suzuki Vitara, 2002 Suzuki Vitara, 2001 Suzuki Vitara, 2000 Suzuki Vitara, and 1999 Suzuki Vitara. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Hypoid gear oil must be used for differential.
It is highly recommended to use SAE 80W-90 viscosity.

Before oil change or inspection, be sure to stop engine and lift up vehicle horizontally.
Check oil level and existence of leakage. If leakage is found, correct its cause.
Drain old oil and pour proper amount of gear oil as specified below (roughly up to level hole).

Fig 1: Identifying Gear Oil Level
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Apply sealant to thread of drain plug and torque plugs to specification.
Sealant: 99000-31110

Tightening torque

Differential oil level/filler plug (a): 40 N.m (4.0 kg-m, 29.0 lb-ft)

Differential oil drain plug (b): 25 N.m (2.5 kg-m, 18.0 lb-ft)

Fig 2: Identifying Drain Plug & Filler Plug
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.

Hypoid gear oil specification: API GL-5, SAE 75W-85, 90 or 80W-90

Fig 3: Oil Viscosity/Temperature Chart
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.

Gear oil capacity: 1.0 liters (2.1 / 1.8 US / lmp. pt)