My local dealer quotes $119 for 4wd service, which changes the front diff oil, transfer case oil (which they say is "in the middle" of the system) and the rear diff oil. Are there three parts to change the oil in? I thought there were only two in addition to the auto trans. fluid?

They also quote $119 to change the auto transmission fluid (a separate service), which seems reasonable, but I don't want to pay $119 for a 4wd service if they're quoting parts that aren't even there.

 

for 2nd gen, there isn't a front diff in the traditional sense...it is part of the transmission...there is no fluid to change. the only fluids to change is transfer case and rear diff.

tranny change is a nice price, but ask them what they are specifically are doing. if they are just draining the pan, I'd ask them how much to get all the fluid out.

 

And the transfer case is near the front of the car, before the driveshaft, right? Is there a dipstick on it to check the oil, or just drain and filler holes?

-- 2007 Outlander XLS 4wd

 

Both transfer and rear differential have drain and fill holes - no dipstick. As always, make sure you can get the fill plug out first before you drain the fluid.

Not the greatest of photos but helpful. Transfer case is right behind the engine - look for the exhaust to be in your way.
http://amsoil.nesser.org/2011/06/transfer-case/

Rear differential and what to expect on the magnetic bolts of each:
http://amsoil.nesser.org/2011/07/200...transfer-case/

 

it is about under the front seats, tucked up kinda high. like nesser said, get the fill plug out first, then drain.

Use a hand pump like this:
http://www.rowand.net/Shop/Tools/ima...ldOilPump1.jpg
it is very easy to change those fluids with one of those pumps.