How much rear differential fluid does a 2002 Dodge Dakota hold?
The rear differential on a 2002 Dodge Dakota typically holds about 2 quarts of gear oil. The exact amount depends on the axle type—most Dakotas use an 8.25-inch rear axle (roughly 1.8–2.0 quarts), while some configurations may use a larger 9.25-inch axle (about 2.5–3.0 quarts). Always verify with your axle code or manual to be sure.
To understand what you need to plan for, here is a breakdown of typical capacities by axle type and guidance for confirming your exact figure.
Axle configurations and their capacities
Most 2002 Dakotas came with one of two rear axles. The exact capacity depends on which axle you have. The following ranges guide most service jobs.
- 8.25-inch rear axle: roughly 1.8–2.0 quarts of gear oil when performing a standard drain-and-fill to the normal level.
- 9.25-inch rear axle (found on some configurations): roughly 2.5–3.0 quarts.
Note: Some Dodge Dakota variants with a limited-slip differential may require a friction modifier in addition to the gear oil. Always verify based on your specific axle code and differential type.
How to identify which axle you have
Use the axle tag or the differential housing stamping to verify the axle model and gear ratio. If the tag is unreadable, consult your VIN-based service data or a dealer manual to confirm, since the Dakota did not always use the same axle across trims and markets.
Drain and fill procedure (general guidelines)
Before draining, warm the differential oil to facilitate drainage. Prepare a drain pan and tools, then follow these steps to drain and refill to the proper level.
- Step 1: Park on level ground, engage parking brake, and slightly loosen the fill plug before draining to avoid a vacuum lock.
- Step 2: Place a drain pan under the differential and remove the drain plug to let old oil drain completely.
- Step 3: When drainage finishes, reinstall the drain plug and remove the fill plug again to pour in fresh gear oil.
- Step 4: Pour oil through the fill hole until it begins to seep out, then reinstall the fill plug at the proper level.
If your differential has an LSD, use the friction modifier per the manual. Confirm the exact type of gear oil (often 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-5) and whether any additive is required for your specific differential.
Summary
In short, the 2002 Dodge Dakota’s rear differential capacity varies by axle. The common 8.25-inch axle holds about 1.8–2.0 quarts, while a rarer 9.25-inch axle holds roughly 2.5–3.0 quarts. Always verify the exact capacity using the axle tag or factory manual, and use the recommended gear oil with any required LSD additive if applicable. This ensures proper lubrication and long-term reliability for your rear differential.
How many quarts to fill rear differential fluid?
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.
What kind of gear oil does a 2004 Dodge Dakota take?
Valvoline – High Performance Transmission & Differential Gear Oil: Conventional 75W-90, 1 Quart (Part No. VV820)
What year to stay away from Dodge Dakota?
To ensure performance and comfort, it's best to avoid the 1999, 2000, 2002, 2005, and 2006 Dodge Dakotas. These pickup trucks are plagued by broken suspensions, engine issues, defective brakes, steering failure, transmission problems, and some cosmetic issues (the paint job).
How much fluid does a 2002 Dodge Dakota rear differential hold?
About 4.9 Pints (almost 2.5 quarts) 75W-90 gear oil plus friction modifier if your rear axle is equipped with limited slip.
