What kind of rear differential fluid does a 2007 Ford F150 take?
For most 2007 Ford F-150s, the rear differential requires SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil. If the axle is equipped with a limited-slip differential, you must add a friction-modifier additive. Use Ford Motorcraft 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil or another reputable GL-5 75W-90 oil, and follow the LSD additive guidance in your manual.
Understanding the 2007 F-150’s rear axle options
The 2007 F-150 could be equipped with either an 8.8-inch rear axle or a 9.75-inch rear axle. Both use the same basic oil specification, but the presence of a limited-slip differential requires a friction-modifier additive. Axle type and whether the differential is LSD can be confirmed by checking the axle tag on the differential cover or the vehicle’s door sticker and service records.
Identifying your exact axle helps ensure you purchase the correct oil and whether to add friction modifier.
- 8.8-inch rear axle (common in many configurations) — uses SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil. If it has a limited-slip differential, add a friction-modifier additive per the manual.
- 9.75-inch rear axle (heavy-duty option on some trims) — uses SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil. If it has a limited-slip differential, add a friction-modifier additive per the manual.
In practice, verify your exact axle code and LSD status with the owner’s manual or a Ford dealer to ensure proper fluid and additives.
Choosing the right differential oil
When selecting oil for the rear differential, aim for GL-5 rating with a viscosity of 75W-90. Ford’s guidance centers on Motorcraft 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil, but other reputable brands that meet GL-5 and 75W-90 specs are acceptable. If your axle is Limited Slip, you will need to add a friction-modifier additive as directed by the manual.
- Motorcraft SAE 75W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil (Ford’s recommended option).
- Other reputable brands that meet GL-5 and 75W-90 specifications (for example Castrol, Mobil 1, Royal Purple, etc.).
- For limited-slip axles, purchase an appropriate friction-modifier additive and mix in according to the product directions and your manual.
Always verify the bottle label to confirm GL-5 compatibility and the 75W-90 viscosity, and follow the LSD additive instructions if applicable.
How to service the rear differential fluid
If you’re planning to change the oil in the rear differential, here is a general, step-by-step approach. Always consult the specific service procedures for your vehicle and axle.
- Secure the vehicle on a level surface, raise safely, and place it on stands. Place a drain pan beneath the differential.
- Before draining, remove the fill plug first to ensure you can refill later; then remove the drain plug and allow the old oil to drain completely.
- Clean and inspect the drain plug and replace with a new washer if needed; reinstall the drain plug and tighten to the specified torque.
- With the differential open, clean any debris from the fill hole and prepare to refill.
- Fill through the fill hole with the recommended 75W-90 GL-5 oil until it begins to seep out of the fill hole; do not overfill.
- Reinstall the fill plug, lower the vehicle, and wipe away any spills. Check for leaks after a short test drive.
- If the axle is limited-slip, ensure the friction-modifier additive was added per the product instructions before final fill or at the next service interval, as required.
Regular differential servicing helps protect gears and bearings and maintains proper lubrication. Recheck the level after the first drive and at regular service intervals, especially after heavy towing or off-road use.
Summary
In short, the rear differential in most 2007 Ford F-150 models uses SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil. If your differential is limited-slip, you must add a friction-modifier additive per the manual. Use Ford Motorcraft 75W-90 GL-5 or another reputable GL-5 75W-90 gear oil, and follow the LSD additive guidelines. Confirm your axle type and LSD status to ensure you buy the correct oil and additives, and perform the service according to Ford’s intervals.
