Diff fluid consistency of mud

Has anyone else had their 2012 Tacoma's diff fluid the consistency of mud? I've owned two Tacoma's an '05 and now the '12. The mechanic told me that they check all their Tacoma's at 30,000 miles instead of the suggested 50,000 since they have seen this issue before. The front diff fluid oozed out as soon as the plug was removed. The rear didn't ooze nor was it muddy but it was jet black. Anyone else having this problem?

 

I just changed my 05's two months ago. The oil in both diffs and the transfer case all came out fine. Rear was black, front was gray, transfer was pretty good. All flowed nicely, not goopy like mud.

 

Sounds like you got water into the differential.

 

I'm a pretty cautious driver and don't 4 wheel unless necessary. I do live in snow country but haven't had to plow my way through any drifts with the '13 like I did the '05. Other than driving in normal conditions i.e. rain, snow, slush etc. on central Idaho roads. I can think of nothing that would have gotten water in the diff. Should I have the mechanic look into a bad seal? I am pretty sure he already checked that anyway. He is very thorough. FYI. I am a 48 yr old woman who doesn't work on my own rigs. I know my limitations!

 

I honestly have no idea how you would have gotten water into your front differential but a common result of water mixing with diff oil is the oil taking on a chocolate milk shake like consistency. The breather for the front diff is pretty high and since you said you don't off road, I highly, highly doubt you submerged it. I would look around the seals for evidence of oil leaking out (a point of entry for water). You might want to also make sure the breather hose is fastened to the top of the differential correctly. If it was left loose or off, that could allow water to get in. I'm assuming you still have a warranty since it's pretty new, I'd take it to the dealership and at least let them document that you had a problem in case you have issues later on.

 

Thanks! I will head out shortly and check. I have been Emailing my Dad too and he has been saying pretty much the same thing. He has been schooling me on the workings of the differential and I am learning a lot between this thread and his knowledge. I can't tell you how much I appreciate all of your help. I love my Tacoma and don't want to be disappointed in it in any way or believe I've let it down in maintaining it.

I'll let you know what I find out. Debbie B.