How much fluid does a Mustang differential hold?
Most Mustangs with the common 8.8-inch rear axle hold about 2 quarts (roughly 1.9 liters) of gear oil during a drain-and-fill service. The exact capacity varies by year, axle type (open versus limited-slip), and whether a friction modifier for an LSD is required. Always check the specific figures for your car in the owner’s manual or on the axle specification tag.
Typical capacity range for the Mustang’s rear differential
The following estimates apply to the standard 8.8-inch rear axle used in most Ford Mustangs. Actual capacity can differ by year, axle code, and whether the differential is open or limited-slip.
- Open differential (standard rear axle): about 2.0 quarts (approximately 1.9 liters).
- Limited-slip differential (factory LSD): typically around 2.0 quarts, with some designs requiring up to about 2.4 quarts depending on the LSD internals and need for a friction modifier.
- Performance or special editions with different LSD configurations: capacity can vary slightly; always verify with the official specification for your exact axle code.
Because the exact amount can vary by model year and axle configuration, use the manual or the axle code to confirm the precise fill volume for your Mustang.
How to determine the exact capacity for your vehicle
Use these steps to confirm the precise differential capacity for your specific Mustang:
- Identify your axle code. Look for a tag or stamping on the differential or consult the vehicle’s data plate to determine the exact axle type and gear ratio.
- Consult the official Ford workshop manual or the owner’s manual for your model year and axle code. The exact capacity will be listed for open vs. LSD configurations.
- If you cannot access official manuals, perform a measured fill: drain the differential completely, reinstall the drain plug, then fill through the fill hole with the recommended gear oil until it begins to seep out of the fill hole. Note the amount used as your practical capacity for future reference.
- Remember to use the correct lubricant. Most 8.8" differentials use a 75W-140 synthetic gear oil, and LSD-equipped diffs may require a friction modifier per Ford’s specification.
- Recheck after a short drive and recheck the level if needed, ensuring the level remains consistent with the fill plug location.
If you’re unsure, have a professional reference the exact capacity for your year and axle code to avoid overfilling or underfilling.
Summary
In practice, plan on roughly 2 quarts of gear oil for most Mustang 8.8" differentials, with a possible range up to about 2.4 quarts for certain LSD configurations. Always verify the precise capacity using the vehicle’s axle code and official manuals, and follow the correct procedure for a proper fill with the recommended lubricant.
How much fluid does a 2007 Mustang rear differential hold?
8.8" Differential, Approx 2.1qts & 4oz of friction modifier.
What kind of fluid does a Ford 8.8 diff take?
Fluid Note
LMR recommends the 75W140 viscosity for all 1986-2014 8.8" differentials as it is appropriate for most climates, fuel economy, and performance.
How much fluid goes in the rear differential?
Take. So it's typically be about 3.3 to 3.6 quarts uh depending on whether or not it's electronic or not electronic. If it is electronic would be on the lower side your 3.3 to 3.4.
How much fluid does a 2014 Mustang differential hold?
S197 Mustang (10-14) Rear End Fluid Capacity
8.8" Differential, Approx 2.5qts & 5oz of friction modifier.
