What kind of gear oil does a Ford f150 take?

For the Ford F-150, there isn’t a single answer that fits every model year or drivetrain. The correct fluid depends on which component you’re servicing—rear differential, front differential, or transfer case—and on your axle code and year. In most modern F-150s, the rear and front differentials use a 75W-140 synthetic GL-5 gear oil, while the transfer case commonly uses Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid rather than traditional gear oil. Always confirm with your owner’s manual or the axle code sticker to be certain.

Understanding the oil requirements for a Ford F-150 involves recognizing that different drivetrain components have distinct specifications. This article breaks down the typical oil types by component, explains how to verify the exact spec for your truck, and offers practical tips for maintenance and sourcing fluids.

Rear differential gear oil

Differentiate what your rear end needs by considering axle type and whether you have a limited-slip differential. Here’s what is commonly required for the rear axle on most modern F-150s.

• Viscosity and type: 75W-140 synthetic gear oil (GL-5) is standard for most 8.8" and newer rear axles.


• Limited-slip and friction modifier: If the rear axle has a limited-slip (LSD) or Trac-Lok setup, you’ll typically need a friction modifier added per the bottle instructions (often included with Ford LSD gear oil).


• Older or non-LSD configurations: Some older axles or non-LSD configurations may specify 75W-90; always verify with the axle spec for your truck.


• Quantity and procedure: Drain the old oil, replace the drain and fill plugs to the proper torque, and fill to the recommended level for your axle capacity.

Concluding: For most modern F-150s, use a 75W-140 synthetic GL-5 gear oil in the rear differential, with a friction modifier added if your axle is limited-slip. Always check the axle code or manual to confirm.

Front differential gear oil

The front differential fluid requirements can vary by year and axle configuration, especially on 4x4 models with locking or LSD options. Here is the typical guidance you’ll encounter.

• Viscosity and type: 75W-140 synthetic gear oil (GL-5) is commonly specified for many F-150 front diffs, especially those with LSD or advanced gearing.


• Non-LSD or older configurations: Some front diffs may use 75W-90 in older or non-LSD setups—but verify for your exact axle and year.


• Modifications: If the front axle has a friction-modifier requirement (rare in modern setups without LSD), follow Ford’s instructions for adding modifiers.


• Service notes: Front-diff service follows the same drain/refill basics as the rear; ensure you use the correct capacity and torque specs.

Concluding: The front differential on many F-150s uses 75W-140 synthetic GL-5 gear oil, with 75W-90 as an alternative for older or non-LSD axles. Always confirm via the manual or axle code.

Transfer case fluid

The transfer case fluid specification is separate from gear oil for differentials. On most current Ford F-150s, the transfer case requires Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid, though some configurations or older models may specify a different fluid. Always check the transfer case section of the owner’s manual for your exact setup.

• Standard specification: Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid for many modern transfer cases.


• Alternate requirements: Some older or special-transfer cases may call for 75W-90 gear oil or a Ford-specific transfer-case fluid; verify against your manual.


• Capacity and procedure: Transfer case capacity is typically small; drain, refill to the indicated level, and follow the torque specs for the fill plug.

Concluding: Dexron VI ATF is common for contemporary F-150 transfer cases, but confirm with your manual to avoid misapplication. If your transfer case requires a gear oil, Ford’s fluids and the owner’s manual will specify the exact viscosity and type.

How to confirm the exact oil for your truck

Because fluids vary by year, axle code, and optional equipment, follow these steps to be certain you’re using the correct oil for your specific F-150.

• Consult the owner’s manual: It lists the exact fluid type and capacity for each component.


• Check the axle code sticker: Located on the differential cover or in the door jamb; it can reveal the appropriate fluid specification.


• Review Ford’s official fluids: Use Ford Motorcraft or other fluids that meet GL-5 or Dexron VI specs as recommended for your model year.


• When in doubt, contact a dealer or a trusted shop: Provide your VIN to get the precise spec for your truck.

Concluding: Always verify the exact spec for your vehicle to avoid incorrect fluids, which can lead to improper lubrication or damage over time.

Summary

The Ford F-150’s gear oil needs are component-specific. Most modern models use 75W-140 synthetic GL-5 gear oil for both rear and front differentials, with an LSD-compatible friction modifier if required. Transfer cases in contemporary F-150s typically use Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid rather than gear oil. Always confirm the exact specification via the owner’s manual, axle code sticker, or dealer, since fluids can vary by year, axle, and equipped options. Using the right fluid protects gears and extends the life of your drivetrain.

What gear oil does a Ford F-150 take?

Valvoline FlexFill SAE 75W-140 Full Synthetic Gear Oil is recommended for use in axle applications requiring factory-fill or drain-and-fill levels for limited slip performance. Product Features: FLEXIBLE POUCH FOR EASIER USE WITH LESS WASTE in tight, hard to reach undercarriage situations.

What kind of fluid does a Ford F-150 front differential take?

The Ford F-150 front differential fluid type varies by model year, but the most common fluids are SAE 75W-85 Premium Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant (Ford Part # XY-75W85-QL) for newer models, or SAE 75W-90/80W-90 for older models. For newer trucks, 75W-85 is the manufacturer's recommendation, while 75W-90 is a common and accessible alternative. For heavy towing, some recommend using a thicker fluid like 75W-140, especially for older models. 
Recommended fluids by model year

• Newer Models (2015+): Ford recommends SAE 75W-85 Premium Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant (Ford Part # XY-75W85-QL, WSS-M2C942-A). 
  • Note: For models with a Torsen differential (like the Raptor), a specific friction modifier may also be needed. 
• SAE 75W-90: Older Models (e.g., 2006, 2014): or 80W-90 gear oil is often specified.
• Heavy Towing: For some applications, particularly older models, a thicker SAE 75W-140 fluid (Ford Part # XY-75W140-QL, XY-75W140-KL) may be beneficial. 

Important considerations

• Always check your owner's manual: The most accurate fluid type and quantity for your specific F-150 can be found in the owner's manual. 
• Use the correct specifications: Ensure the fluid meets the specific Ford specification (e.g., WSS-M2C942-A) listed for your truck. 
• Synthetic oil is often recommended: Synthetic fluids are engineered for better performance and longevity. 
• Friction modifier: Some differentials, especially limited-slip or Torsen types, require a friction modifier in addition to the gear oil. Check your manual to see if this is necessary for your truck. 

What kind of oil does a Ford gearbox take?

The correct Ford transmission fluid type depends on your vehicle and its transmission, but the most common types are the Mercon family (Mercon LV, ULV, V) and Type F, which is for older vehicles. Always check your owner's manual or the vehicle's dipstick to ensure you use the correct specification, as using the wrong fluid can cause serious damage.
 
Common Ford transmission fluid types

• Mercon LV (Low Viscosity): This is the fluid for many modern Ford automatic transmissions, including select F-150s and Explorers, as noted by Walmart and Valvoline. 
• Mercon V: Recommended for older Ford automatic transmissions and can be found in models like the 2006-2009 F-150 and 2006-2008 Escape, according to Walmart. 
• Mercon ULV (Ultra Low Viscosity): Used in specific newer transmissions, such as the AW F21 6-speed transmission. 
• Type F: A specialty fluid for older Ford automatic transmissions from the 1970s and earlier, or some power steering systems built before the late 1990s, as noted by Amazon and Valvoline. 
• Type CJ: A specialty fluid for specific transmissions like the Ford C-6. 

Important considerations

• Always check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for the correct fluid type. 
• Look for licensing: For Mercon fluids, make sure they have a license number issued by Ford, which ensures quality. Avoid products that only say "similar to". 
• Use genuine Motorcraft fluids: Using fluids recommended by Ford is the safest option, especially with newer, more complex transmissions. 

What is the difference between 80W90 and 75w90 gear oil?

75W-90 gear oil is generally thinner in cold temperatures and provides better flow, fuel efficiency, and protection in extreme climates, while 80W-90 is thicker and is a more traditional choice for standard conditions. Choose 75W-90 for colder climates or if your vehicle operates under high-stress conditions and has longer drain interval requirements. Opt for 80W-90 for standard, non-extreme driving, especially in heavy-duty vehicles or if cost-effectiveness is a priority. 
This video explains the difference between 75W-140 and 80W-90 gear oil and how to read gear oil viscosity numbers: 1mMidwest GarageYouTube · Oct 7, 2015
75W-90 gear oil

• Better cold-weather performance: The "75W" indicates it flows better at lower temperatures compared to 80W-90, which is beneficial in cold climates. 
• Synthetic base: It is often synthetic-based, meaning it has better thermal stability and resistance to oxidation and shearing over time. 
• Increased efficiency: The thinner viscosity can lead to slightly better fuel economy. 
• Ideal for: Extreme climates, modern vehicles, limited-slip differentials, and applications requiring longer drain intervals. 

You can watch this video to learn how to choose the right gear oil for your vehicle: 53sBackyard Hot RodsYouTube · Jul 9, 2022
80W-90 gear oil

• Traditional and common: A widely available and traditional gear oil for many applications. 
• Higher viscosity in heat: It has a higher viscosity base oil and is thicker than 75W-90 at high temperatures, providing a substantial oil film for protection. 
• Cost-effective: Often more budget-friendly than its synthetic 75W-90 counterpart. 
• Ideal for: Standard conditions, heavy-duty trucks, and vehicles where cost-effectiveness is a key factor. 

Key considerations

• Check your owner's manual: Always follow the manufacturer's specific recommendation for your vehicle, as using the wrong oil can lead to shifting issues or premature wear. 
• Synthetic vs. Conventional: Many 75W-90 oils are synthetic, while 80W-90 is often mineral-based. Synthetic oils generally offer superior performance and longevity. 
• Mixing oils: While you can mix them, the resulting oil's performance will be a compromise between the two types. If you mix them, know that you are reducing the overall quality.