Changing the rear differential fluid on a Ford Ranger is quick and easy. Just make sure you have the right type of rear differential fluid, fluid additives, and tools to do the job.

Most Ford Ranger drivers know about changing their

engine oil

to keep their truck running at top shape, but what about the rear differential fluid? If you haven’t changed it in a while (or ever!),

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The best Ford Ranger rear differential fluid

For most Ford Rangers, you’ll need a hypoid gear lubricant SAE 80W or 90W. However, there are some exceptions to this and some additives you’ll want to consider.

For example, if your Ranger has a front locking differential, you’ll want to add 2 ounces of friction modifier. If you have a rear locking differential, use only locking differential fluid No. ESP-M2C154-A and add 4 ounces of friction modifier.

If your Ranger is an FX4 Level II, you’ll need 75W-140 synthetic lubricant.

You can find different types of differential fluid to browse through and purchase

online here.

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Does Ford have a self-driving car?

What is rear differential fluid—and why does your Ford need it?

Rear differential fluid is a crucial part of keeping your Ford running smoothly. It’s a type of lubricant that keeps your axles and wheels turning as they should. Your differential also helps provide even amounts of power to your wheels, especially when turning or driving off-road.

When your rear differential fluid becomes dirty or old, it can’t lubricate all your axle’s moving parts as it should. That’s when parts start to become damaged, and expensive

car repairs

start looming.

How often to change Ford Ranger rear differential fluid

Your rear differential fluid doesn’t have to be changed as often as some other fluids, like your engine oil, but it does degrade over time. Ford recommends changing the rear differential fluid every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, but for the Ranger specifically, you’ll want to aim closer to the 30,000-mile mark.

If you start noticing any of the following signs from your vehicle, you’ll want to change the differential fluid now instead of waiting until the next 30,000-mile point:

Unusual vibrations or shaking

Strange noises, especially whining, grinding, or whirring

Burning smell coming from the gearbox

Want to try changing the differential fluid yourself? Keep reading!

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Ford Ranger towing capacity

How to change your Ford’s differential fluid

Before starting your at-home differential fluid service, check your owner’s manual to determine if you have the right differential fluid and tools available. In most cases, you’ll need the following:

Carjack

Jack stands

Socket wrench set

Fluid transfer pump

Drain pan

Step 1: Use your carjack to lift your truck and secure it on jack stands or ramps. If your truck sits pretty high off the ground anyway, you can maybe skip this part. Find the differential drain bolt and remove it.

Step 2: Allow the gear oil to drain completely before replacing the drain bolt. Make sure to wipe off any gear oil that gets outside the case.

Step 3: Find and remove the gear oil fill bolt.

Step 4: Slowly add the gear oil to the differential.

Step 5: Keep adding fluid until it reaches the fill line or starts to bubble out of the fill hole. Be careful not to overfill!

Step 6: Reinstall the gear oil fill bolt and clean up any spills.

MORE: How to build a custom Ford Ranger

How to find affordable Ford insurance

Keeping up with changing your rear differential fluid can save your Ford from seriously expensive issues down the road. But if you want some savings you can see every month, download the

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