Q: Like to change the transmistion fluid in the tranfer case.

asked by on December 19, 2016

How can I change the transfer case fluid and what type of fluid do I need?

My car has 38000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Transfer case fluid is dirty Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there. On the bottom of your transfer case, there should be a large hex plug. You will need a special hex tool like a large allen wrench to remove the plug. Put a drain pan under the plug and drain out all of the fluid. Then put the plug back on and tighten it up. Then you will see the same type of plug above that plug. This would be the fill plug. Remove the plug and fill it up with 75W-140 synthetic fluid until it begins to slightly pour out. Then put the plug on and tighten it up. When you are done, I recommend putting a line across both plugs with a paint marker. This makes sure that during inspections you can see if the plugs have came loose or if they are still tight. If you need further assistance with changing your transfer case fluid, then seek out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Brake light and turn signal not working
Hi. There could be an issue with the light bulb sockets so they should be inspected for problems. Also, have a certified mechanic make sure the proper power from the multifunction switch in the steering column (Turn signal switch) is...
Starting problem, engine revs at low RPM in drive - 1999 Chevrolet C3500
It sounds like the Idle Air Control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) is gunked up. It may be possible to clean it, or it might have to be replaced. A YourMechanic professional can help to diagnose the stalling issue (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-is-stalling-inspection) and replace the...
weird noise with cold air intake and idle
This is a common symptom of the mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement) needing to be upgraded due to the increased air intake. The mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement) operates based upon predetermined stock tuning in the ECM. When the air...
Car did not come with a key-less key fob... can it be installed?
Yes, you can buy a key fob from Amazon and program it to your car. The most difficult and costly part of this process is getting the key fob programmed to the car. The most common place to get this...
Why does my car vibrate when idle?
Hi There, It sounds like you may have a dirty or failing idle air control valve causing your engine idle to fluctuate and eventually stall. The idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) is a small valve on the engine's intake system...
Driving on torn CV boot?
If you have been driving on torn CV boots and now have noise when turning and have driven like that for a while then you should have the axles replaced as soon as possible. You do not have to go...
ran out of gas on a 2015 dodge ram. won't start. lights are on. but won't turn over. did i burn out my fuel pump?
If the engine is cranking but will not start, it is entirely possible the fuel pump has gone bad. Gasoline actually acts to cool and lubricate the fuel pump and it is pumping the fuel. Run it dry and it...
Why am I getting a whistling sound from my front wheels? Brake pads and rotors were recently replaced
If the pad is smoking that means that the pad is not retracting from contact with the rotor after you release the brake pedal. Failure to retract could be due to a stuck caliper piston (the shop may not have...
Engine shaking and car having trouble starting
What you are describing sounds like a dirty or failing idle air control valve. The idle air control valve (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/idle-control-valve-replacement) monitors the air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected into the engine at low speeds...

Related articles

How Often Do I Need to Top Off My Coolant?
"Coolant" is a term used to refer to radiator fluid. The purpose of coolant is to circulate through the engine compartment...
Jaguar Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
Shopping Shopping for a used Jaguar vehicle often leads many drivers to consider certified pre-owned options. Jaguar is one of many manufacturers that have a certified pre-owned (CPO) program. Each car manufacturer structures their CPO program differently; read on to...
How to Replace a Washer Fluid Level Switch
The washer fluid level switch fails when the Windshield Fluid Warning Light stays illuminated or there are unusual noises coming from the washer pump.