pb39374

I have a 2010 E350 4Matic and was wondering if the rear and front differential fluid needs to be changed. I don’t see anything in the maintenance booklet for it (other than for AMG’s). Does anyone know?
Thanks

Arrie

It is not in the booklet because it is considered lubricated for life by MB. But I had it done I think at around 140 000 miles. It is very low cost service at the dealer (well, relatively) so you might think having it done after 100 000 miles during an oil change or other service you have.

AMGs I think have it in the booklet because the differential has a mechanical lock with wearing parts in it.

nc211

I don’t know about yours, but mine (2014) is easy for the rear diff and a PIA on the front due to no fill plug. Have to remove Axle shaft to refill. My mechanic says the rear is serviceable because it takes the workload due to a fixed split of power via the transfer case and rear biased (believe 55/45 back/front). He said they’ve never seen a front diff go bad due to gear oil.

Bhopkins

I'm glad to see this discussion. Having recently bought my '14 E350 4Matic Sport, I have not been able to find any information on differential fluid maintenance. When ordering other maintenance supplies from FCP, I also ordered diff fluid. FCP recommended Red Line 75W-90, which is recommended for MB 235.6, 235.8, and 235.20. But some other sources, such as eEuroparts recommends 235.7/235.74 in a 75W-85.

What have each of you used? Did you find any particular recommendation?

cetialpha5

I changed the axle seal in my car and had to change the differential fluid. As it only held .6 quarts and the oem fluid from FCPeuro was around $20, I didn't bother chasing any other fluid. Some have claimed they got better gas mileage from going back from a 75w-90 to the oem 75w-85 but I find that a little hard to believe. My guess is that redline isn't on MB's approved fluid list which is why it's just recommended and not MB approved.

Sunnyslope48

For a rear diff oil change (mine is RWD) is there a need to use a sealant on the plugs, both of them? If so, what type/brand?

konigstiger

Clean screws and holes using Loctite cleaner or equivalent, apply a drop of sealant to start of lower thread on drain plug and tighten.