Differential fluid change in a '99 auto?

[shampooguy]

Has anyone ever changed the differential fluid in a '98-'01 auto? On my '93 there is a seperate differential drain plug (other than the tranny plug), and my Haynes manual says there is one for the '99, but it's nowhere to be found. Thanks

[johnholl]

It's in the center of the final drive assembly[center of the chassis], about 3.5 feet back. I've never changed it but it's a good idea to check it. The fluid should be at or slightly above the plug, if the car is inclined. fluid should leak out as plug is loosened.

[shampooguy]

Originally Posted by johnholl

It's in the center of the final drive assembly[center of the chassis], about 3.5 feet back. I've never changed it but it's a good idea to check it. The fluid should be at or slightly above the plug, if the car is inclined. fluid should leak out as plug is loosened.

I'm a little confused...so there is no way to drain it completely (like on my 93)? Sounds like it needs to be sucked out?

[johnholl]

Does it need to be changed? Is it discolored or burnt? Yes, I do beleive it needs to be sucked out [no drain plug]

[barfarf]

It was mystery to me too on to drain the differential fluid. IT was my Haynes manual that showed my how to do it,

I drain the differential fluid in my 99 3-speed automatic Prism by use of large plastic syringe. I purchase its for a few dollars at autozone. You basically have to suck out the ATM fluid since there is no drain plug. Be careful of not overfilling it. I wondered why they made it so hard to do but when I look at the fluid it was very red and clear so it does not get as much action as my regular ATM.

Hope that helps
Chris

Ps. I don’t remember but I think the 4 speed automatics don’t have a differentials. I could be wrong.

[philburt]

The drain plug for the 3 speed auto transmission is located under the car, it is a large allen head plug. The location to add the transmission fluid is located on the backside of the differential cover.