I was under the car today replacing the ATF. Only 20K miles but wanted to get the metallic particles off the drain plug. There was a very thick coating. I noticed the front diff uses hypoid gear lube (it is labeled).

How often should this be replaced? Seems easy to do, but is it necessary? I figured during an oil change I could replace with Redline 75W-90. Only takes .45 quart.

 

The rear diff. and the tranny both have lots of parts that engage and disengage, causing wear & tear. The front diff. is 2 miter gears that are set and never change or disengage. The amount of wear will be far, far less. Since Acura doesn't publish any kind of maintance schedule for us, I can only guess that the MID wouldn't pop up a service code for that service until you have many more miles. But it is not a difficult service to do yourself, so if you do feel so inclined, I would say go ahead. Having fresh fluids in the car is always better than not. Some owners will suggest trying to wring the last 20 cents of life out of the fluid, but that has always seemed like a poor argument when talking about your piece of mind and a $9000 motor & $7000 tranny.

 

Please forgive my previous bad memory about prices. Here are the more accurate prices.

Just as basis for financial reference is someone has to pay for one of these assemblies:

Engine short block: $2350
rear diff.: $2686
transfer case assy: $1082
transmission-auto: $4137

These don't include labor and other parts

 

Thanks little gator. I have the same philosophy. I am amazed at people who will scoff at using a higher quality oil filter or better oil to save a few dollars over a six month period. About the price of a Starbucks latte.

 

Let's hope none of us need to use these numbers.

 

For the few bucks you'll spend on the gear oil - I would say change it, can't hurt.

 

And don't forget to get those new drain & fill plug washers ahead of time. They are the same part #, and they cost a LOT less then a $1082 transfer case assy ruined from a leaky reused washer.