Is there a substitute for using Honda Brand Differential Fluid?

Generally I would think you could run any brand gear lube provided it meets Honda's specification. I like Redline gear lube and installed some in my motorhome differential last summer. Redline is a Group V ester based fluid and can take the heat better than most any other differential fluid. See redlineoil.com

Honda doesn't provide specifications on gear oil that is why I'm asking. Honda doesn't even list the weight on the containers.

Seems Honda wants you to buy their lube. Could research, check web sites for hondas and see what people are successfully running, call reputable independent shops that service a lot of Hondas and see what they use/recommend.

If your rearend starts leaking you'll know why. Redline's oil uses esters which are harmful towards the seals. As for the honda. Is it a LSD? What GL spec is in the user manual?

Specific models require special fluids usually only found at the dealer. There are some models in my Valvoline Recommended Lube book that can use GL5 90W. I would recommend you speak to the dealer for specifics on your model.

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Originally posted by additive guy:
Redline's oil uses esters which are harmful towards the seals.

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I'll believe it if I see it. There is no way the companies that use ester based oil or ester additives would continue with products that harm seals. These possibilites are addressed in the oil formulation by any reputable oil company.

Hi,

If you have the CRV Honda which has a diff, use M-1 gear oil, that is what I use on my brother's CRV with really good results.