What size is the rear end of a 2016 Ford f150?
Two rear-axle sizes were used across the 2016 F-150 lineup: an 8.8-inch rear axle and a 9.75-inch rear axle.
The exact size depends on the model, drivetrain, and options. The most reliable way to confirm yours is to check the axle code or consult the build data for your specific vehicle.
Two rear-axle sizes used in 2016 F-150
Ford employed two common rear-axle diameters that year. Which one your truck has affects towing capacity, payload, and maintenance compatibility. Here are the two possibilities you might encounter:
- 8.8-inch rear axle: This lighter-duty option was used on some base configurations and lighter payload setups.
- 9.75-inch rear axle: This larger, heavier-duty option was used on many higher-trim, four-wheel-drive, and more capable configurations.
Knowing which axle you have helps with parts compatibility, gear ratios, and service intervals. If your vehicle is used for work or heavy towing, the 9.75-inch rear axle is commonly favored for its strength, but configurations vary by package.
How to verify your axle size
To determine your exact rear-axle size, use a few quick checks. The steps below guide you through the most reliable methods.
- Locate the axle code stamped on the differential cover or on the rear axle tube near the differential. The code can indicate the axle type and ratio.
- Check the vehicle's VIN or the original window sticker/build sheet for the axle specification. Ford's official documents and third-party databases often list axle sizes by trim and drivetrain.
- Inspect the differential housing or ring gear directly: the diameter of the ring gear is a telltale sign. Measure across the teeth with a ruler or calipers. If the ring gear measures about 9.75 inches, you have the larger rear axle; if about 8.8 inches, you have the smaller one.
- Consult the owner's manual or a Ford dealer/service department with your VIN for a definitive answer. They can pull the exact axle code from the vehicle's data.
Measuring or decoding the axle size helps ensure you buy compatible parts, such as differential oil, ring gears, or axle bearings, and avoid mismatches during maintenance or upgrades.
Summary
The 2016 Ford F-150 uses either an 8.8-inch or a 9.75-inch rear axle, depending on configuration. To know for sure, check the axle code on the differential, review the build data for your VIN, or measure the ring gear diameter. When in doubt, a Ford dealer or qualified mechanic can confirm the exact axle size quickly.
