Differential Service

This procedure covers draining and refilling the transaxle differential fluid on a FWD 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with 2.5L I4 engine to maintain proper lubrication and extend drivetrain life.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Drain plug washer × 1 — 90430-24003 or equivalent copper washer

Fluids

• Toyota WS ATF — 2.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Allow engine and transmission to cool completely if recently driven
4. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack and secure on jack stands at manufacturer jack points
5. Verify vehicle is stable before working underneath

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate differential drain and fill plugs
   From underneath the vehicle, locate the transaxle differential section. The drain plug is a 24mm bolt at the bottom of the differential housing. The fill plug is a 24mm bolt on the side of the differential housing, typically at the correct fluid level height.
2. 2

   Clean drain and fill plug areas
   Use a shop rag to clean around both the drain plug and fill plug to prevent dirt from entering the differential when plugs are removed.
3. 3

   Loosen fill plug first
   Using a 24mm socket or box wrench, loosen the fill plug first before draining. This ensures you can refill the differential after draining. Do not fully remove yet, just break it loose to confirm it will come out.
   ℹ️Always loosen the fill plug before draining to avoid being unable to refill if the fill plug is seized.
4. 4

   Drain differential fluid
   Position drain pan under the drain plug. Remove the drain plug completely using the 24mm socket. Allow all fluid to drain completely, which typically takes 5-10 minutes. Inspect drained fluid for metal particles or debris that could indicate internal wear.
   Torque spec

   Drain Plug41 Nm (30 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Inspect and replace drain plug washer
   Remove the old copper washer from the drain plug and discard. Clean the drain plug threads and sealing surface. Install a new copper washer onto the drain plug.
   Torque spec

   Drain Plug41 Nm (30 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Reinstall drain plug
   Thread the drain plug with new washer by hand to avoid cross-threading. Tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Drain Plug41 Nm (30 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove fill plug
   Completely remove the fill plug that was loosened earlier. Wipe the plug and surrounding area clean.
8. 8

   Refill differential with ATF
   Using a fluid pump or squeeze bottle with flexible tube, inject Toyota WS ATF through the fill hole. Fill until fluid begins to drip from the fill hole, indicating proper level. Approximately 2-2.5 quarts will be required. Allow a minute for fluid to settle and top off if necessary.
   ⚠Use only Toyota WS ATF. Using incorrect fluid can cause transmission damage and shifting problems.
9. 9

   Reinstall fill plug
   Clean the fill plug threads. Thread the fill plug by hand, then tighten to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Fill Plug41 Nm (30 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Check for leaks
    Wipe the drain and fill plugs clean with a shop rag. Wait 2-3 minutes and inspect both plugs for any signs of fluid leakage.

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle from jack stands using floor jack
2. Remove jack stands and lower vehicle completely to ground
3. Remove wheel chocks

Verification

• Start engine and allow to idle for 1 minute, then shut off
• Check underneath vehicle for any fluid leaks at drain and fill plugs
• Test drive vehicle through all gears to verify normal operation
• After test drive, re-inspect drain and fill plugs for leaks with vehicle on level ground
• Record mileage and date of service for maintenance records

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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