Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See Scheduled Maintenance .

Notice: If you drive your vehicle through deep water that is higher than the front or rear axle, water may enter the axle housing and cause the axle lubricant to break down. This could damage the gears inside. Avoid driving your vehicle through deep water.

You should avoid driving your vehicle through deep puddles or standing water. If you must drive through water that is higher than the front or rear axle, see your dealer immediately afterward to have the condition of the axle lubricant checked.

To get an accurate reading, the vehicle should be on a level surface.

If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, located on the rear axle, you'll need to add some lubricant. Add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole.

Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See Part C: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants .