What is Car Gear Oil: Know the Definition, Function, and When to Change It

The function of gear oil also called axle oil, is very important in maintaining the health of the car’s drive system. One of its functions is to lubricate the axle or differential components in motorized vehicles. The axle is a component that works by rubbing against each other and is responsible for regulating the rotation speed of the wheels when the car turns. Axle oil plays an important role in keeping axle components in safe condition.

Those of you who want to know more about car axle oil can find out in this article. Here TransTRACK will discuss axle oil starting from its definition, function to when is the right time to replace it.

What is Car Gear Oil?

Axle oil, also known as differential oil, is a special type of lubricating oil used to lubricate axle or differential components in motor vehicles. The axle is a component that connects the rear wheels of a vehicle and allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds when the vehicle turns. Axle oil is very important because it helps reduce friction and heat generated by the movement of wheels rotating at different speeds.

Functions of Car Gear Oil

The main function of car axle oil is to lubricate the components in the axle or differential system. Without adequate lubrication, these components will experience excessive friction, which can result in wear and damage. Axle oil also plays a role in cooling the axle components which can get hot due to prolonged friction.

In addition, axle oil helps maintain transmission performance and ensures that power from your vehicle’s engine can be transferred to the rear wheels efficiently. This is very important in improving your vehicle’s traction and stability, especially when driving on slippery or curved road conditions.

When To Change Gear Oil

Axle oil that is too old or dirty can cause damage to the axle and can even cause an accident. Therefore, it is important to know when to change the axle oil. Here are some things to pay attention to.

Check the Vehicle Manual

The first way to find out when to change the axle oil is to check the vehicle manual. The vehicle manual usually contains information regarding the axle oil change schedule. Make sure to follow the replacement schedule stated in the vehicle manual so that the axle is always in good condition.

Check the axle oil color

You can also find out when the axle oil needs to be changed by checking the color of the axle oil. Axle oil that is still good usually has a brownish color. If the color of the axle oil has changed to grayish or even black, then it is time to change the axle oil.

Check the consistency of the axle oil

New axle oil has a liquid consistency and there are no visible dirt or particles. However, if the axle oil has been used for too long or is dirty, the consistency will become thicker and there will be visible dirt or particles. If your axle oil is too dirty and thick, you should replace it immediately.

Check Vehicle Mileage

Finally, you can check your car’s kilometer distance to find out when to change the axle oil. The more often the vehicle is used, the faster the axle oil will drain and need to be replaced. Typically, an axle oil change is recommended every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, but this can vary depending on the type and make of car.

What are the impacts if you don’t change the gear oil regularly?

If the axle oil is not changed regularly, there will be several negative effects that can affect the performance and performance of your vehicle. The following are some of the effects that may occur if the axle oil is not changed:

Noise in the machine

Axle oil that is dirty and thick can cause excessive friction on the axle components, resulting in noise in the engine. This can interfere with driving comfort and be a sign that the axle oil needs to be changed immediately.

Machine Overheating

Axle oil plays an important role in keeping the engine temperature stable. If the axle oil is too dirty or runs out, its ability to regulate engine temperature will decrease. As a result, engine temperature can increase and cause the engine to overheat.

Axle Component Damage

Improper axle oil conditions can cause excessive friction. This can result in damage to transmission gears, bearings and other components. If this damage is not treated immediately, the repair costs required will be greater.

Decreased Vehicle Performance

When the axle oil is no longer effective in lubricating the axle components, it can affect the overall performance of the vehicle. Some of the downsides you might notice are reduced acceleration, lower maximum speed, or poor handling.

To prevent negative effects, it is important for you to change the axle oil regularly according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. If you are not sure about the right axle oil change schedule, you should consult a trusted repair shop or mechanic. By keeping the axle oil in good condition, you can ensure the performance and reliability of your vehicle remains optimal.

Regardless of the specific properties of axle oil, general vehicle maintenance is an important step in ensuring that your vehicle continues to run well. This includes checking your brakes, suspension, tires, and various other systems periodically.

To help track vehicle maintenance schedules more efficiently, you can also use the Vehicle Maintenance System (VMS) from TransTRACK. This technology can help you remind you when it’s time to change the axle oil and carry out other maintenance. With VMS, axle oil maintenance becomes more effective and efficient.

After knowing the definition, function of axle oil, when to change it, and the impact of not changing it, we hope you will pay more attention to maintaining your car.