FWD & AWD Differntial Gear Oil

[Bruns]

I will definitely get mine done before next winter.


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[Unobtanium]

I would usually unload the cars before 200k miles but whoever bought them would later tell me they never had any failures. I would lose touch with them after a year.

The other factor is to make sure to replace the trans and differential fluid with OEM fluid. These differentials are very unique and sticking with OEM fluids is best practice. Redline had some foaming issues with differential fluid years ago but I believe they have since resolved it. Anyone using Amsoil should be fine but the SkyActiv transmission is unique so sticking with OEM Mazda trans fluid is best practice.

Remember, both your and my "evidence" is all anecdotal. The reality is that fluids break down and replacing them is key to keeping the mechanical component alive. No fluid engineer would agree with keeping dirty and old fluid circulating in your components. No matter how much anecdotal evidence we present, the reality is fluids break down and lose their ability to protect the part they are circulating in.

Like I said, I can't argue it from a textbook standpoint. I can only go by my past experience though, which is illogical but does have real world value to me.

 

[Unobtanium]

I think the rear diff fluid change may be overlooked by some at 30K for the following:

a) .....using a car-top carrier
d) Repeated short trips of less than 16 km (10 miles)

I had my original diff changed at 30k. It looked just fine really. Dirty yes, but nothing untoward.

 

[Buddywh2]

Well thats different to what you said in post 5.

What I would say to those alarmed by the photo of the oil, don’t worry, it is normal and if you change it early it will do it again. It most certainly will not cost you $2000 if you don’t change it early.

I'd be alarmed if the fluid looked 'milky' or 'creamy', suggesting significant water was getting into the system. That could be a problem: does anyone know how the rear and front housings are vented? What can happen, when driving through extra deep water, it cools the diffie or transaxle and the gasses inside contract drawing water in through a poorly placed/protected the vent. That would be a case where not changing early could lead to a $2000 repair bill!

If properly set up for off-road use vent placement would, or should, have been considered. But this is an on-road vehicle even though some (including me!) have considered using it in limited off-road capacity.

 

[Anchorman]

They have simple vents on them. Water could get in if submerged.

 

[Kedis82ZE8]

Check out my thread here

http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?123854936-CX-5-AWD-Rear-Diff-Breather

I'd be alarmed if the fluid looked 'milky' or 'creamy', suggesting significant water was getting into the system. That could be a problem: does anyone know how the rear and front housings are vented? What can happen, when driving through extra deep water, it cools the diffie or transaxle and the gasses inside contract drawing water in through a poorly placed/protected the vent. That would be a case where not changing early could lead to a $2000 repair bill!

If properly set up for off-road use vent placement would, or should, have been considered. But this is an on-road vehicle even though some (including me!) have considered using it in limited off-road capacity.