Posted on 10/31/2025
Gear oil is one of those fluids that doesn’t receive much attention compared to engine oil or coolant, but it is essential for keeping your vehicle’s differential and axles working properly. Without the right lubrication, metal gears inside the differential can grind, overheat, and wear out far too quickly. Unfortunately, a few common mistakes with gear oil can lead to expensive repairs and even total axle failure. Let’s take a closer look at five gear oil mistakes that vehicle owners often make and why they should be avoided. 1. Ignoring Gear Oil Replacement Intervals Gear oil doesn’t need to be changed as frequently as engine oil, but that doesn’t mean it lasts forever. Over time, it breaks down from heat, pressure, and contamination. Most manufacturers recommend changing differential fluid between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and vehicle use. Skipping this maintenance can lead to dirty, degraded oil that ... read more