How to Replace the Rear Differential Fluid: 2009-2014 Ford F-150

Watch this video to learn how to replace the rear differential fluid on a 2009-2014 Ford F-150.

Replacing Rear Differential Fluid on a 2009-2014 Ford F-150: What You Need

Ready to perform this DIY replacement job? Remember that all the parts in this guide can be found on CarParts.com. Check out all the products that fit your vehicle right here.

Parts Checklist

• Differential fluid
• Brake cleaner
• Silicone gasket

Tightening Torques

• Lower slide pin and stop rubber balancer:
  • Rear differential housing cover bolts: 33 Ft-lbs.

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Ford F-150: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

• Hydraulic jack
• Jack stands
• Ratchet
• 10mm socket
• Flat head screwdriver
• Fluid collector
• Cloth
• Razor blade
• Sandpaper
• Paper towel
• Torque wrench
• 3/8” drive extension socket
• Oil syringe or filling spout

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preliminary Preparations

• Turn off your engine and engage the parking brake.

Step 2: Preparing for Differential Service

• Loosen the stud bolts on the rear wheels. Lift the rear of your vehicle then place the vehicle securely on the jack stands.

Step 3: Draining Differential Fluid

• To drain the differential fluid, you need to remove the differential cover.
• Position a fluid collection tray under the differential to catch the fluid that will flow out.
• Use a ratchet and a 10-mm socket to unscrew the 10 bolts holding the differential cover. Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry along the edge of the differential and remove the differential cover. 
• Allow the fluid to flow out for approximately 10 minutes.

Step 4: Cleaning the Seal Surface

• Before reinstalling the differential cover, clean the seal surface for a proper seal. Use a razor blade to remove the used seal. Scrub the seal surface with fine sandpaper. Finish cleaning with brake cleaner and wipe with a paper towel.

Step 5: Preparing the Differential Cover

• Repeat the cleaning process for the differential cover.

Step 6: Applying Silicone Gasket Maker

• Apply a thin layer of silicone gasket maker on the differential cover to ensure a proper seal. If there’s grime in the differential, clean it using brake cleaner and a cloth.

Step 7: Reattaching the Differential Cover

• Replace the differential cover, hand-tightening the bolts initially. Finish tightening the bolts in a staggered pattern using a torque wrench.

Step 8: Adding Differential Fluid

• Lower the car back to the ground, ensuring it’s on a flat surface for accurate fluid filling.
• Use a ratchet and a 3/8” drive extension socket to unscrew the filler cap by turning it counterclockwise.
• Use an oil syringe or a bottle with a filling spout to add fluid to the differential until it overflows from the hole. This overflow indicates that you’ve added enough fluid to the differential.
• Clean the differential’s filler cap thoroughly, as it is magnetic and may have grime on it.

Step 9: Sealing the Differential

• Screw the filler cap back on securely. Clean up any fluid that overflowed from the differential. The process of draining and refilling the differential fluid is now complete.

Compatible Vehicles

The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles:

• 2009 Ford F150
• 2010 Ford F150
• 2011 Ford F150
• 2012 Ford F150
• 2013 Ford F150
• 2014 Ford F150

Important Reminders

If you find that there is grime in the differential, you can clean it with brake cleaner and a cloth.

Before putting the differential cover back in place, you need to clean the seal surface to ensure a perfect seal.

Clean the differential’s filler cap well because it is magnetic and there is often grime left on it.

Disclaimer:

This video is for entertainment purposes only. Carparts.com, Inc. disclaims all damages including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, and/or punitive, for any liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or arising from any information or lack thereof posted in this video. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All mechanical car projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. If you are in doubt, please consult a licensed mechanic in your area.