Differential Service

This procedure drains, refills, and services the differential fluid in a 2018-2024 Honda Accord 1.5L Turbo, ensuring proper lubrication of the final drive assembly.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Drain plug crush washer × 1 — 94109-20000 or equivalent
• Fill plug crush washer × 1 — 94109-20000 or equivalent

Fluids

• Honda DW-1 ATF — 2.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Raise front of vehicle and support securely on jack stands at manufacturer specified lift points
3. Allow differential to cool to a safe working temperature if recently driven (fluid should be warm but not hot)
4. Remove driver side front wheel for improved access to differential plugs
5. Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the transaxle housing and fill plug on the side

Procedure

1. 1

   Clean drain and fill plug areas
   Use a wire brush to clean around both the drain plug (bottom) and fill plug (side) to prevent contamination when plugs are removed. Wipe clean with a shop rag.
2. 2

   Remove fill plug first
   Using a 17mm socket, loosen and remove the fill plug located on the side of the differential housing. This ensures you can refill after draining. Inspect the crush washer and set aside the plug.
   ℹ️Always remove the fill plug before the drain plug to ensure you can refill the differential after draining
3. 3

   Drain differential fluid
   Position the drain pan under the drain plug. Using a 17mm socket, remove the drain plug from the bottom of the differential housing. Allow all fluid to drain completely (approximately 5-10 minutes). Inspect the drained fluid for metal particles or contamination.
   ⚠Fluid may be warm; wear appropriate gloves to prevent burns
4. 4

   Install drain plug with new washer
   Remove the old crush washer from the drain plug and discard. Install a new crush washer onto the drain plug. Thread the drain plug by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Drain Plug39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Refill differential with Honda DW-1 ATF
   Using a fluid transfer pump or funnel with hose inserted into the fill plug hole, add approximately 2.5 quarts of Honda DW-1 ATF. Fill until fluid begins to seep from the fill plug hole, indicating proper level. The differential is properly filled when fluid reaches the bottom of the fill plug threads.
   ℹ️Fill slowly to allow air to escape and prevent overflow
6. 6

   Install fill plug with new washer
   Remove the old crush washer from the fill plug and discard. Install a new crush washer onto the fill plug. Wipe away any excess fluid from the housing. Thread the fill plug by hand, then tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Fill Plug39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Clean and inspect for leaks
   Wipe down the entire area around both plugs with a clean rag. Inspect for any signs of leakage around the drain and fill plugs. Reinstall the driver side front wheel if removed.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall driver side front wheel and torque lug nuts to Honda specifications (108 Nm / 80 lb-ft)
2. Lower vehicle to ground
3. Dispose of used differential fluid properly at a recycling center

Verification

• Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature
• Shift through all gear positions (P-R-N-D-L) while stationary with foot on brake, pausing 2-3 seconds in each position
• With engine running, raise vehicle and verify no leaks at drain or fill plugs
• Take a short test drive and verify smooth shifting and normal operation
• Recheck for leaks after test drive while vehicle is warm

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