Legacy front differential fluid

[ricardox]

2003 Legacy L SE Wagon, Auto

Does anyone know if the front differential fluid needs to be drained/refilled separated from the transmission? There's a dipstick to check the front differential fluid, but I need to reach into the deep bowels of the engine bay to get at it. Is there a separate drain plug? Thanks!

Also, how much ATF do I need to refill the transmission after draining? My manual lists close to 10 quarts, but I'm thinking that's from a dry fill, rather than drain and refill. Thanks, again.

 

[Edward Hayes]

Assuming you have an automatic transmission; then yes. The differential section used an 80-90 GL5 gear oil ant the AT uses Dexron 3 automatic transmission fluid. The drain and refill for the AT is ~ 4 quarts on my 2000 Forester AT. eddie

 

[John M. (archive)]

Does anyone know if the front differential fluid needs to be

drained/refilled separated from the transmission? There's a dipstick to check the front differential fluid, but I need to reach into the deep bowels of the engine bay to get at it. Is there a separate drain plug? Thanks!

Yes, there is a separate drain plug for the front differential (at least on my 2002 VDC). It's reached from beneath the vehicle.
John