Front Differential Gear Oil Inspection and Change

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 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 (roughly up to level hole).

Fig 1: Identifying 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): 23 N.m (2.3 kg-m, 16.5 lb-ft)

Differential oil drain plug (b): 23 N.m (2.3 kg-m, 16.5 lb-ft)

Fig 2: Applying Sealant To Thread Of Drain Plugs
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.

Hypoid gear oil specification

API GL-5, SAE 75W-85, 90 or 80W-90

Fig 3: Identifying Oil Viscosity
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.

Gear oil capacity

1.0 liters (2.1 / 1.8 US/Imp pt.)