How to Pick the Right Jeep ZJ Differential Fluid
You can replace Jeep ZJ differential fluid by choosing the right gear oil, then following a few easy steps.
Written by Payton Ternus
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
The process for replacing differential fluid in a Jeep ZJ is easier than you might realize. You will need to buy a synthetic 75W-140 GL-5 gear oil that meets your Jeep’s specifications, then drain the old oil after removing the differential fill plug.
Whether you’re under the hood in your garage or your wheels are deep in some off-road mud, you’re used to getting your hands dirty for your
Jeep
. Routine maintenance is important to keep your Jeep ZJ running for years to come—including replacing the differential fluid.If this is your first time replacing the differential fluid in your Jeep ZJ, you’re in the right spot.
Jerry
, the top-rated app that finds the best savings on car insurance
, put together this guide to picking, using, and replacing differential fluid in a Jeep ZJ from beginning to end.The best Jeep ZJ differential fluid
The best differential fluid for a Jeep ZJ is the Mopar P/N 04874469 SAE 75W-140 Synthetic oil, which you can
purchase online here
.But what do you do if it’s out of stock—or this is out of your price range? Luckily, other synthetic gear oil options will work for your Jeep ZJ, as long as they’re labeled “75W-140” to indicate the proper viscosity (thickness).
You’ll also want to look for the label “GL-5,” which refers to how many sulfur-based additives are in the oil to help it work smoothly. Here are some alternatives to Mopar oil:
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What is differential fluid—and why does your Jeep need it?
So, what exactly is differential fluid? What purpose does it have in your Jeep ZJ, and why does it need to be replaced regularly?
Differential fluid is a specific kind of motor oil designed to lubricate your vehicle’s differential and its components and make sure it runs smoothly. It also provides cooling to the differential to prevent any overheating.
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How often to change Jeep ZJ differential fluid
Differential fluid doesn’t work quite as hard as the oil in your Jeep’s engine—but that doesn’t mean you can forget about it! It may be time for
differential fluid service
if your Jeep ZJ exhibits any of these signs:- Abnormal vibrations
- Burning smell coming from the gearbox
- Howling, straining, or whirring sounds
It’s important to be wary of these symptoms, but hopefully you won’t have to witness them if you keep up with routine maintenance.
You can help keep your Jeep ZJ healthy by remembering to replace the differential fluid at least every 100,000 to 120,000 miles. Ideally, though, you should replace the rear differential fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
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How to change your Jeep ZJ’s differential fluid
The first step is consulting your owner’s manual to see what your specific Jeep ZJ requires for differential fluid. Then get these tools and supplies ready:
- Carjack and jack stands
- Drain pan
- Fluid drain pump
- Fresh oil
- Socket wrench set
Step 1: Jack up your Jeep ZJ using the carjack and secure it on the jack stands. Find the differential drain bolt, then loosen and remove it to let the oil drain.
Step 2: Make sure the old gear oil is completely drained from your Jeep, then replace the drain bolt. Wipe down the case to remove any excess gear oil.
Step 3: Find the gear oil fill bolt and remove it from your Jeep
Step 4: Slowly add the fresh gear oil to the differential using the fluid drain pump.
Step 5: Continue filling the gear oil until you reach the specified level, or when it starts to spill out of the fill hole.
Step 6: Replace the fill hole bolt and tighten it back into place. Wipe off any residual gear oil from the case.
How to find affordable car insurance for your Jeep ZJ
Staying up to date on your Jeep’s routine maintenance can keep it running for years to come and help you save money on repairs. If you’re wanting to find the most savings for your monthly car budget,
Jerry
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