How to Replace Rear Differential Fluid: 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500

Watch this video to learn how to replace the rear differential fluid on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500.

Replacing Rear Differential Fluid on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500: 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

Tightening Torques

• Rear differential housing cover bolts: 3.5 Ft-lbs or 42 In-lbs

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Dodge RAM 1500: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

• Hydraulic jack
• Jack stands
• Flat head screwdriver
• Fluid collector
• Ratchet
• 14mm Allen socket
• Torque wrench
• Oil syringe or bottle with a filling spout
• Paper towel

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle

• Turn off the engine and set the parking brake.
• Lift the rear of your vehicle using a jack.
• Place the vehicle on jack stands for safety.

Step 2: Open the Differential Oil Filler Plug

• Locate the differential oil filler plug.
• Use a flat head screwdriver to remove the rubber plug for easier oil flow.

Step 3: Position Fluid Collection Tray

• Place a fluid collection tray under the differential to catch the fluid.

Step 4: Drain the Differential Fluid

• Use a ratchet and a 14mm Allen socket to unscrew the oil plug.
• Let the fluid flow out for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Secure the Oil Plug

• Screw the oil plug back on by hand.
• Finish tightening the plug using a torque wrench.
• Do not overtighten.

Step 6: Refill the Differential Fluid

• Lower the vehicle to the ground.
• Use an oil syringe or a bottle with a filling spout to add fluid until it overflows from the hole.

Step 7: Replace the Rubber Filler Plug

• Replace the rubber filler plug on the differential.

Step 8: Clean Up Excess Fluid

• Use brake cleaner and paper towels to clean up any fluid overflow from the differential.

Things to Consider When Changing Differential Fluid Yourself

Before deciding to change the differential fluid, you should consider if your vehicle has enough ground clearance that you don’t need to jack it. Not needing to jack a car makes it easier to change the differential fluid.

You should also check if your vehicle has a drain plug to make it easier to drain the fluid. If it doesn’t have a drain, you’ll need to loosen and remove the differential rear cover, which can get messy.

If your vehicle doesn’t have a drain plug and needs jacking, it may be better to take it to a mechanic to change the differential fluid for convenience. While labor rates may vary depending on where you live, expect to pay between $100 and $200 for a professional differential fluid replacement.

Compatible Vehicles

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

• 2009 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2010 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2011 Ram 1500
• 2012 Ram 1500
• 2013 Ram 1500
• 2014 Ram 1500
• 2015 Ram 1500
• 2016 Ram 1500
• 2017 Ram 1500
• 2018 Ram 1500

Important Reminders

To drain the differential fluid, you must open the differential oil filler plug. This will facilitate oil flow when draining.

The vehicle must be on the ground to replace the differential fluid.

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.