What oil is in a Ford Ranger differential?
The Ford Ranger’s differentials use gear oil, not engine oil. The standard specification on most models is 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil, with a limited-slip differential (LSD) requiring the appropriate friction-modifier additive.
As with any vehicle component, exact requirements can vary by model year, market, and whether the axle includes a differential housing with a factory LSD. Always verify with the vehicle’s owner’s manual, axle tag, or a Ford dealer to ensure you use the correct oil for your specific Ranger.
Standard gear oil specification for Ranger differentials
Here are the typical lubricant grades used in Ford Ranger front and rear differentials. This section notes that LSD-equipped axles require an additional friction modifier.
- Front differential: Use 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil. Synthetic oil is commonly recommended for better performance and longevity, and a friction-modifier additive is required if the axle includes an LSD.
- Rear differential: Use 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil. If your Ranger has a factory limited-slip differential, be sure to add the manufacturer’s LSD friction-modifier when you fill.
In practice, many Ranger owners report that 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil covers both axles, with the LSD note applying only if your build specifies a limited-slip unit. Always confirm against your manual or a Ford service bulletin for your exact year and market.
Limited-slip differential and additives: what to know
If your Ranger is equipped with a factory LSD, you will typically need a friction-modifier additive in addition to the gear oil. Without the modifier, the LSD may chatter or not engage smoothly, especially during heavy loading or cornering. If there is no LSD, this additive is not required.
- Identify LSD presence: Check the axle tag, build sheet, or owner’s manual for “LSD” or limited-slip notation. Some trucks list this on the axle cover or through the VIN/build data.
- Use the correct additive: If LSD is present, add the Ford-recommended LSD friction modifier at refill. If the axle is open (no LSD), don’t add the modifier.
- Consult documentation: Variances by year, market, or axle type mean you should verify the exact additive and its quantity from Ford’s official documentation.
Bottom line: LSD status drives whether you need the friction modifier in addition to the gear oil. When in doubt, verify with the manual or a Ford service advisor.
How to determine capacity and service interval
Because Ranger differentials can use different axle designs across trims and model years, fill capacity and service intervals vary. The most reliable approach is to consult the owner’s manual, the axle tag, or Ford’s official service information for your exact vehicle. Here are practical steps to ensure you’re servicing correctly.
- Identify the axle type and LSD status using the axle tag or build data. If you’re unsure, a Ford dealer can confirm from the VIN.
- Check the manual or Ford service bulletin for the recommended oil grade (typically 75W-90 GL-5) and whether an LSD modifier is required.
- When changing fluid, use the specified oil and only add the LSD modifier if indicated for your axle.
- Record the service and monitor for signs of differential problems, such as unusual noises, leaks, or changed handling characteristics, and recheck at the next service interval.
Intervals and capacities differ by year and axle design, so relying on the manufacturer’s guidance is essential to avoid overfilling or underfilling, which can affect performance and longevity.
Summary
For most Ford Ranger models, the differential oil is gear oil—commonly 75W-90 GL-5—with a friction-modifier additive required only if the axle includes a factory limited-slip differential. Always verify the exact specifications for your year, market, and axle type via the owner’s manual or a Ford service advisor. Proper oil choice, correct additive use, and adherence to service intervals help protect the ring-and-pinion gears and maintain reliable differential performance.
Which is better, 75w90 or 80w90?
Yes, 75W-90 is generally better than 80W-90 because it flows better in cold temperatures and offers better protection across a wider range of temperatures, leading to improved efficiency and longer drain intervals. The "75W" rating indicates better cold-weather performance compared to "80W," while both have a similar "90" rating for high-temperature viscosity. This makes 75W-90 a preferred choice, especially in climates with significant temperature swings or for applications prioritizing fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance.
Advantages of 75W-90 over 80W-90
- Better cold-start performance: The "75W" designation means the oil is thinner when cold, making it easier for the engine to start and providing better lubrication to internal components immediately.
- Wider operating temperature range: 75W-90 maintains a more consistent thickness across a wide temperature range, offering better protection in both hot and cold conditions.
- Improved fuel efficiency: The lower viscosity at colder temperatures can reduce drag and lead to a small improvement in fuel economy, as noted by OEMs.
- Longer service life: 75W-90, especially when synthetic, is more resistant to oxidation and thickening, allowing for longer drain intervals and reduced maintenance costs.
When 80W-90 might be sufficient
- Standard climate conditions: In regions with mild and stable climates, the difference in performance may be minimal, and 80W-90 could be adequate.
- Budget-friendly choice: 80W-90 is often less expensive upfront than 75W-90. However, the total cost of ownership can be higher when factoring in reduced efficiency and shorter drain intervals.
Summary
| Feature | 75W-90 | 80W-90 |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Flow | Superior (flows better in winter) | Adequate (flows less easily when cold) |
| High-Temperature Viscosity | Same (90 weight) | Same (90 weight) |
| Performance | Better for extreme climates and efficiency | Adequate for standard climates |
| Cost | Higher initial cost | Lower initial cost |
| Maintenance | Longer drain intervals | Shorter drain intervals |
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In most modern vehicles and climates, especially where efficiency and protection are priorities, 75W-90 is the better, more modern choice. However, always consult your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure you are using the manufacturer's recommended oil viscosity.
How often should I change the differential fluid on my Ford Ranger?
every 150,000 miles
In our example above, Ford recommends changing differential fluid every 150,000 miles in normal service.
What kind of gear oil does a 2003 Ford Ranger take?
Valvoline FlexFill SAE 75W-90 Full Synthetic Gear Oil is recommended for use in axle applications requiring factory-fill or drain-and-fill levels for limited slip performance.
How much oil does a Ford Ranger front differential hold?
2.0 Litres
All models (Holds 2.0 Litres) Lodexol FS 75W-90 is a synthetic high performance gear oil that has excellent extreme pressure (EP) performance and load carrying ability, as well as providing rust and corrosion protection to transmission components.
