#jeep #jeepwrangler #wrangler #jlu #diy ## TL;DR Steps To Take 1. Receipts for fluids and parts: Save receipts for the exact fluids (e.g., Mopar-approved gear oil or transmission fluid) and any gaskets or seals purchased. 2. Photos + GoPro Video Recording (show current date and time!) 3. Maintenance log: Record the date, mileage, type of fluid used, quantity, and a brief description of the procedure. Note that the work was done per the owner’s manual specifications. 4. Keep the old fluid: If possible, save a sample of the drained fluid in a sealed container in case it’s needed for analysis during a warranty claim. 1. Keep 1 sample of fluid for future warranty claims 2. Send 2nd Sample of fluid to Blackstone Labs for analysis    5. Follow the maintenance schedule: The owner’s manual specifies intervals for fluid changes (e.g., every 20,000–40,000 miles for differentials under severe usage like off-roading, or longer for normal use). Ensure you’re changing fluids at or before these intervals. ## Reasonable Analysis from ChatGPT ### Will DIY Fluid Changes Void Your Max Care Extended Warranty? The Max Care extended warranty (offered through Mopar for Jeep vehicles) typically covers repairs for covered components beyond the factory warranty, but it comes with strict maintenance requirements. Here’s how DIY maintenance might affect it: 1. Warranty Terms and the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act:    - Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (U.S. federal law), a manufacturer or warranty provider cannot void your warranty simply because you performed maintenance yourself, unless they can prove the DIY work directly caused the failure of a covered component.    - For example, if you change the axle fluid incorrectly (e.g., using the wrong fluid or underfilling) and the differential fails, Mopar could deny a claim if they link the failure to your maintenance.    - However, if you perform the work correctly and document it, your warranty should remain intact for unrelated issues. 2. Max Care Maintenance Requirements:    - Max Care warranties often require that maintenance (like fluid changes) be performed according to the manufacturer’s schedule and specifications, as outlined in the owner’s manual.    - The warranty may not explicitly require professional service, but you must prove the maintenance was done correctly if a claim arises. This is where documentation is critical. 3. Documentation to Protect Your Warranty:    To avoid issues with your Max Care warranty, keep meticulous records of your DIY maintenance:    - Receipts for fluids and parts: Save receipts for the exact fluids (e.g., Mopar-approved gear oil or transmission fluid) and any gaskets or seals purchased.    - Photos or videos: Take pictures or videos of the process, showing the vehicle, the fluid being used, and the work being performed.    - Maintenance log: Record the date, mileage, type of fluid used, quantity, and a brief description of the procedure. Note that the work was done per the owner’s manual specifications.    - Keep the old fluid: If possible, save a sample of the drained fluid in a sealed container in case it’s needed for analysis during a warranty claim.    - Follow the maintenance schedule: The owner’s manual specifies intervals for fluid changes (e.g., every 20,000–40,000 miles for differentials under severe usage like off-roading, or longer for normal use). Ensure you’re changing fluids at or before these intervals. 4. Potential Warranty Risks:    - If a component like the differential or transmission fails and Mopar suspects improper maintenance, they may request proof of service. Without documentation, they could deny the claim.    - Some dealers are stricter than others and may scrutinize DIY work more closely. If you’re concerned, you could have a dealer perform these services, though this is costlier. One user on a forum noted getting free oil changes with their extended warranty but didn’t mention fluid changes, so check your Max Care terms for any included services.    - The Max Care warranty typically covers powertrain components (like axles and transmission) for up to 5 years/60,000 miles, but terms vary. Confirm your coverage details to know what’s at stake. ### Practical Tips for DIY Fluid Changes - Check your owner’s manual: The 2023 Jeep Wrangler manual (available online via cdn.dealereprocess.org) specifies fluid types, capacities, and intervals. - Use Mopar-approved fluids: Stick to OEM or equivalent fluids to avoid any disputes during warranty claims. - Torque to spec: Over- or under-tightening bolts can cause leaks or damage, which could be blamed in a warranty dispute. - Inspect for wear: While changing fluids, check for metal shavings or unusual wear in the differentials or transmission, which could indicate issues to address early. - Consider severe usage: If you off-road, tow, or drive in extreme conditions, change fluids more frequently (e.g., every 20,000–40,000 miles for differentials). ### Recommendation You can absolutely perform the front axle, rear axle, and manual transmission fluid changes yourself on your 2023 Jeep Wrangler without voiding your Max Care extended warranty, provided you: 1. Use the correct fluids and follow the owner’s manual specifications. 2. Document the process thoroughly with receipts, photos, and a maintenance log. 3. Adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule. If you’re uncomfortable with the process or worried about warranty scrutiny, consider having a trusted mechanic or dealer perform the work, though this isn’t necessary to maintain warranty coverage. If you want peace of mind, you could also contact Mopar or your dealer to confirm their stance on DIY maintenance under your specific Max Care plan.