02 WRX Gear Oil Change

[BrianO]

After reading around the forum for a somewhat decorated explaination of how changing the gear oil is done, I've not been able to find what I'm looking for. Here are some of my questions:


On this model WRX, how hard is this process?
On this model WRX, where are the various drain plugs located and do I need the t70 torx bit to remove any said plugs?
What kind of gear oil would be suitable for this type of tranny?
I've got 52,000 miles on the tranny, should I consider any kind of conditioners for the oil due to that mileage?

Thanks,
Brian

[SD_GR]

On this model WRX, how hard is this process?

Trivial. Check the torque specifications by searching here or on other fora. Make sure you use the 02 specs, they've changed.

On this model WRX, where are the various drain plugs located and do I need the t70 torx bit to remove any said plugs?

One on the bottom of the gearbox and two, one fill and one drain, on the rear face of the rear diff. Always remove the fill plug before the drain plug.

What kind of gear oil would be suitable for this type of tranny?

The manual specifies a specific weight of GL5. Since you are under warranty I'd follow the manual.

I've got 52,000 miles on the tranny, should I consider any kind of conditioners for the oil due to that mileage?

No. Use only specified fluids of correct viscosity and API grade.