drivetrain

Transfer Case Fluid Change

for 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo · AWD

Editorial review:Chris Hackleman — Master Technician · 20+ years · Jeff Moore — Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years

Difficulty

Easy

Time

1.0 h

Tools

Steps

✓Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.

This procedure drains and refills the transfer case fluid on the 2017 Maserati Levante RWD with 3.0L Twin Turbo engine to maintain proper lubrication and extend component life.

Warnings

⚠Perform this service with the vehicle cold or after allowing at least 30 minutes cool-down time. Hot fluid can cause burns.

⚠The transfer case is located near the exhaust system. Ensure exhaust components are cool before beginning work.

ℹ️This RWD Levante configuration uses a power transfer unit (PTU) that requires specific 75W-140 synthetic gear oil. Do not substitute with transmission fluid.

ℹ️Work on a level surface to ensure accurate fluid fill level.

Tools required

10mm hex socket or Allen keyEssential

3/8 inch drive ratchetEssential

Torque wrench (0-50 Nm range)Essential

Fluid pump or transfer case fill bottleEssential

Oil drain pan (minimum 3 quart capacity)Essential

Vehicle lift or jack stands rated for vehicle weightEssential

Wheel chocksEssential

Clean lint-free rags

Nitrile gloves

Safety glasses

Parts

Transfer Case Drain Plug Washer × 1 — Use OEM specification
Transfer Case Fill Plug Washer × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

75W-140 Synthetic Gear Oil — 2 qt

Preparation

Park vehicle on a level surface and apply parking brake firmly
Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
Raise vehicle on a lift or securely on jack stands to access undercarriage
Verify vehicle is stable and secure before working underneath
Locate the transfer case assembly behind the transmission on the passenger side
Clean the area around drain and fill plugs to prevent contamination

Procedure

1
Locate drain and fill plugs
Identify the transfer case drain plug on the bottom of the case and the fill plug on the side of the housing. The fill plug is typically at the same level as the proper fluid level. Clean both plug areas thoroughly with a rag to remove any debris.
2
Loosen fill plug first
Using the 10mm hex socket, loosen the fill plug BEFORE draining. This ensures you can refill the case after draining. If the fill plug is seized or damaged, do not proceed with draining until it can be removed. Remove the fill plug completely and set aside with its washer.
3
Position drain pan
Place the oil drain pan directly under the transfer case drain plug with adequate capacity to catch all fluid. Position it slightly forward as fluid may drain at an angle.
4
Remove drain plug and drain fluid
Using the 10mm hex socket, carefully remove the drain plug from the bottom of the transfer case. Allow fluid to drain completely into the pan, which may take 5-10 minutes. Inspect the drained fluid for metal particles or debris that could indicate internal wear.
5
Inspect and replace drain plug washer
Once fluid is fully drained, inspect the drain plug threads and sealing surface. Remove the old copper or aluminum washer from the drain plug and replace with a new washer. Clean any residual old gasket material from the plug and case sealing surface.
6
Install drain plug
Install the drain plug with new washer into the transfer case. Hand-tighten first to ensure proper thread engagement, then torque to specification using a torque wrench.
Torque spec
Transfer Case Drain Plug25 Nm (18 lb-ft)
7
Prepare fill equipment
Prepare your fluid pump or fill bottle with the fresh 75W-140 synthetic gear oil. Attach appropriate tubing or nozzle to reach the fill hole at an upward angle. Have approximately 2 quarts ready.
8
Fill transfer case
Insert the fill pump nozzle into the fill hole and slowly pump fluid into the transfer case. Fill until fluid begins to seep out of the fill hole opening, indicating proper level. The case should take approximately 1.8-2.0 quarts. Allow a few moments for fluid to settle and top off if needed.
9
Install fill plug
Replace the washer on the fill plug with a new one. Clean the fill plug threads and sealing surface. Install the fill plug and hand-tighten, then torque to specification.
Torque spec
Transfer Case Fill Plug25 Nm (18 lb-ft)
10
Clean work area and lower vehicle
Wipe any spilled fluid from the transfer case housing and surrounding components. Verify both drain and fill plugs are secure. Properly dispose of used fluid at a recycling center. Lower vehicle to the ground.

Reassembly

Verify both drain and fill plugs are torqued to specification
Ensure no tools or materials are left under the vehicle
Check for any fluid leaks around plug areas immediately after service

Verification

Start the engine and allow it to idle for 2-3 minutes, then shift through all gear ranges
Re-raise the vehicle and inspect the drain and fill plugs for any signs of leakage
After a short test drive (5-10 miles), re-inspect plugs for leaks while vehicle is on level ground
Monitor for any unusual noises from the transfer case during normal operation

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