How to Pick the Right Jeep Wrangler Front Differential Fluid
To replace the front differential fluid in a Jeep Wrangler, choose the right gear oil and follow our easy DIY guide.
Written by Payton Ternus
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
It’s fairly easy to replace the front differential fluid on a Jeep Wrangler. Make sure you buy a synthetic 75W-90 gear oil specific to your model year and remove the differential fill plug before you begin draining your Wrangler’s old oil.
As a Jeep owner, you’re probably not afraid to get your hands dirty—whether you’re working under the hood in your garage or going on an off-road trek. Jeeps require a bit of maintenance and upkeep, including replacing the front differential fluid.
First time changing your Jeep Wrangler’s front differential fluid? You’ve come to the right place.
Jerry
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, has you covered with this guide to the purchase, use, and replacement of front differential fluid in a Jeep Wrangler.The best Jeep Wrangler front differential fluid
The best gear oil for a Jeep Wrangler front differential is the Ravenol Gear Oil DGL 75W-85 GL-5 LS. You can
purchase it online here
as part of the Jeep Wrangler Transfer Case Differential Fluid Change Kit.If you can’t get your hands on the Ravenol Gear Oil, you can buy a different synthetic gear lubricant that meets your
Jeep's
standards. Wranglers typically require oil with a viscosity level listed as “75W-90,” but newer models will most likely need “75W-85” instead. The “GL-5” label refers to the amount of sulfur-based additives the oil contains to help everything run smoothly. Here are some alternative options:
What is front differential fluid—and why does your Jeep Wrangler need it?
You know you need to buy it—but what is front
differential fluid
? What purpose does it serve for your Jeep Wrangler, and why does it need to be replaced every so often?Front differential fluid is a kind of motor oil designed to lubricate the front axle of your Jeep Wrangler, which helps the vehicle run smoothly. It also provides cooling to the bearings, gears, and other internal components of the axle.
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How often to change Jeep Wrangler front differential fluid
It’s easy to overlook differential fluid since it doesn’t have to operate on the same level as the motor oil in your Wrangler’s engine. Some owner’s manuals don’t even have a specific time interval listed for when you need to change the differential fluid!
However, certain signs usually indicate it’s time for your differential fluid to be changed:
- Abnormal vibrations
- Howling, straining, or whirring noises
- A burning smell from the gearbox
You should always keep an eye out for these warning signs of contaminated or low levels of differential fluid—but it’s much easier on both you and the health of your vehicle to have a regular replacement schedule.
For a Jeep Wrangler, the front differential fluid should be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
How to change your Jeep Wrangler’s differential fluid
To get started, consult your owner’s manual. It’s important to make sure you’ve met all requirements for your Jeep Wrangler model. Then, you can get all the necessary tools ready to go:
- Carjack and jack stands
- Drain pan
- Fluid transfer pump
- Fresh oil
- Socket wrench set
Step 1: Jack up your Jeep Wrangler using the carjack and secure it to the jack stands. Find the differential drain bolt, then loosen and remove it from the vehicle.
Step 2: Let the gear oil completely drain out of your car, then replace the drain bolt. Make sure to wipe down the case to get rid of any excess oil.
Step 3: Find the gear oil fill bolt, and remove it from the vehicle.
Step 4: Using the fluid transfer pump, slowly add fresh gear oil to the differential.
Step 5: Keep adding new oil to the differential until you reach the recommended level. You’ll know when to stop adding oil when it starts to spill out of the fill hole.
Step 6: Replace the fill hole bolt and tighten it back to its proper position. Clean the case of any excess oil, and you’re done!
MORE:
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How to find affordable insurance for your Jeep
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