1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differentials

Keep Your 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon in Top Shape with Quality Differentials

Whether you’re repairing or upgrading your Differential, using high-quality parts is key to keeping your 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Front Differential Pinion Bearings, Differential Pinion Pilot Bearings, and Differential Bearings. Whether you’re replacing a damaged part or enhancing your truck’s style and protection, you’ll find exactly what you need to get the job done right.

Top-Rated Differentials from Trusted Brands

Looking for a reliable Differential? We’ve got you covered with options from brands you know and trust like Valvoline and National. For example, Valvoline Differentials start at just $13.99 with an average 4.8 star rating. National offer similar pricing and quality, backed by strong customer feedback. With over 60 reviews and a solid 5 star average, you can shop with confidence knowing other Volkswagen Vanagon owners approve.

Competitive Prices and Extensive Inventory

The average price for a 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differential at Advance Auto Parts is around $28.34, with a range that starts at $8.79 and goes up to $48.08. With 10 options in stock from 7 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like Bearings, Taper Bearing Cone, and Bearings start at just $8.79 and offer a great balance of form and function.

Explore Related Parts

While you’re upgrading or replacing your Differential, don’t forget to check out other key components like CV Axles and Joints and Drive Shafts and Axles. At Advance Auto Parts, we’re here to help you keep your 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon in peak condition, inside and out.

Essential 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differentials

National – Bearings (Part No.32010-X)

Bearings

from

$44.49
National Oil Seals & Bearings offer a full line of premium oil seals and bearings.

Product Features:
  • Premium bearing design matches OEM specifications
  • Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • Matched cup and cone components ensures consistent quality and outstanding performance
  • Industry leading coverage
  • Professional technicians know they can depend on National
See More

INA – Differential Bearing (Part No.J7060654749INA)

Differential Bearing

from

$42.77
Differential Bearing

SKF – Differential Pinion Bearing (Part No.J702012211SKF)

Differential Pinion Bearing

from

$48.08
Differential Pinion Bearing

Driveworks – Taper Bearing Cone (Part No.S-M-86649)

Taper Bearing Cone

from

$8.79
Value-priced bearing meets all cataloged application requirements.

Product Features:
  • Brand may vary by location
See More

FAG US – CONE (Part No.KM86649)

CONE

from

$18.99
CONE

National – Bearings (Part No.M86649)

Bearings

from

$18.79
National Oil Seals & Bearings offer a full line of premium oil seals and bearings.

Product Features:
  • Premium bearing design matches OEM specifications
  • Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • Crowned raceways and rollers to ensure even load distribution for maximum life
  • Industry leading coverage
  • Professional technicians know they can depend on National
See More

National – Shaft Repair Sleeve (Part No.99177)

Shaft Repair Sleeve

from

$39.49
National® has built a reputation as one of the most respected names in the industry. We have offered premium sealing solutions for more than 75 years. Our design team keeps pace with the industry and provides advanced solutions for today’s vehicles.

Product Features:
  • Designed to repair damaged, grooved or worn shafts
  • Durable stainless steel construction for corrosion-free sealing surface that surpasses most original shaft specifications
  • Ideal for a shaft where indications of seal wear, such as tracks or grooves have developed
  • Ultra-thin construction (0.01/0.25mm wall thickness) allows original seal size to be used with minimal additional lip loading
  • Easy to install with removable flange and installation tool
  • Installation tool reduces sleeve distortion and allows for installation without removal from the shaft
See More

National – Shaft Repair Sleeve (Part No.99189)

Shaft Repair Sleeve

from

$38.49
National® has built a reputation as one of the most respected names in the industry. We have offered premium sealing solutions for more than 75 years. Our design team keeps pace with the industry and provides advanced solutions for today’s vehicles.

Product Features:
  • Designed to repair damaged, grooved or worn shafts
  • Durable stainless steel construction for corrosion-free sealing surface that surpasses most original shaft specifications
  • Ideal for a shaft where indications of seal wear, such as tracks or grooves have developed
  • Ultra-thin construction (0.01/0.25mm wall thickness) allows original seal size to be used with minimal additional lip loading
  • Easy to install with removable flange and installation tool
  • Installation tool reduces sleeve distortion and allows for installation without removal from the shaft
See More

Valvoline – Import Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Quart (Part No.822389)

Import Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Quart

from

$13.99
Valvoline Import Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid is specifically formulated for use in most Toyota, Nissan, Honda and other imported vehicles. It is formulated with all synthetic base stocks and a proprietary additive system to ensure optimal transmission performance in a wide variety of vehicles. Valvoline Import Multi-Vehicle ATF can also be used in many domestic vehicles. It meets requirements of General Motors and Ford vehicles. Recommended for use in the following applications: Ford MERCON, GM DEXRON-II and DEXRON-III, BMW LT 71141 and ETL-7045E, Nissan/Infiniti Nissan ATF, Matic-D, Matic-K and Matic-J, Mitsubishi Diamond SP-II and SP-III, Subaru ATF-HP, Hyundai/ KIA SP-II and SP-III, Toyota/Lexus Type T, T-III and T-IV, Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 (except in CVTs), Mercedes Benz NAG1, Volvo passenger car (except AW-1), and Volkswagen/Audi TL52162. For CVT applications Valvoline recommends Valvoline Full Synthetic CVT Fluid.

Product Features:
  • Formulated with full-synthetic base stocks and advanced additive technology to meet the challenging demands of automatic transmissions
  • Enhanced anti-shudder protection for smooth shifting and maximum power transfer
  • Developed with anti-wear technology to help improve transmission durability
  • Engineered with a proprietary blend of base oils and advanced additives to provide better oil flow at low temperatures and greater film protection at higher temperatures
See More

Valvoline – DEXRON – VI ATF Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Quart (Part No.822405)

DEXRON - VI ATF Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Quart

from

$14.49
Valvoline DEXRON-VI/MERCON LV ATF is a full-synthetic transmission fluid formulated with advanced additive technology to meet and exceed the requirements of the General Motors DEXRON-VI specification. It is officially licensed and approved by GM and is fully back-serviceable and can be used wherever DEXRON-II and/or DEXRON-III are recommended. Recommended for use in the following applications: DEXRON-VI, DEXRON-III, DEXRON-II, and Allison C-4.

Product Features:
  • Formulated with full-synthetic base stocks and advanced additive technology to meet the challenging demands of automatic transmissions
  • Enhanced anti-shudder protection for smooth shifting and maximum power transfer
  • Developed with anti-wear technology to help improve transmission durability
  • Engineered with a proprietary blend of base oils and advanced additives to provide better oil flow at low temperatures and greater film protection at higher temperatures
See More

Royal Purple – HMX SAE 5W-30 High-Mileage Synthetic Motor Oil (5 Quart) (Part No.11748)

HMX SAE 5W-30 High-Mileage Synthetic Motor Oil (5 Quart)

from

$66.99
Royal Purple HMX SAE 5W-30 High-Mileage Synthetic Motor Oil, 5 quart is specifically designed to minimize wear and restore lost performance in engines with more than 75,000 miles. Formulated with robust zinc/phosphorus anti-wear compounds combined with Royal Purple’s proprietary additive technology Synerlec, HMX is chemically enhanced to revitalize hardened seals, reducing oil consumption common in high-mileage engines. In addition, HMX is fortified with stout detergents to remove engine build-up and deposits, maintain cleanliness and promote engine longevity. 

Product Features:
  • Specifically designed to minimize wear and restore lost performance in engines with more than 75,000 miles
  • Formulated with robust zinc/phosphorus anti-wear compounds combined with Royal Purple’s proprietary additive technology
  • HMX is chemically enhanced to revitalize hardened seals, reducing oil consumption common in high-mileage engines
  • Reduces friction and metal-to-metal contact for peak engine performance
  • Also provides outstanding oxidation resistance to safely extend oil drain intervals, and an ionic attraction to metal surfaces, providing protection and minimizing wear at start-up
See More

Valvoline – DEXRON®-VI ATF Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon (Part No.883572)

DEXRON®-VI ATF Full Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon

from

$38.49
Valvoline DEXRON-VI/MERCON LV ATF is a full-synthetic transmission fluid formulated with advanced additive technology to meet and exceed the requirements of the General Motors DEXRON-VI specification. It is officially licensed and approved by GM and is fully back-serviceable and can be used wherever DEXRON-II and/or DEXRON-III are recommended. Recommended for use in the following applications: DEXRON-VI, DEXRON-III, DEXRON-II, MERCON LV and Allison C-4.

Product Features:
  • Formulated with full-synthetic base stocks and advanced additive technology to meet the challenging demands of automatic transmissions.
  • Enhanced anti-shudder protection for smooth shifting and maximum power transfer
  • Developed with anti-wear technology to help improve transmission durability
  • Engineered with a proprietary blend of base oils and advanced additives to provide better oil flow at low temperatures and greater film protection at higher temperatures
See More

Valvoline – Import Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon (Part No.820681)

Import Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon

from

$36.99
Valvoline Import Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid is specifically formulated for use in most Toyota, Nissan, Honda and other imported vehicles. It is formulated with all synthetic base stocks and a proprietary additive system to ensure optimal transmission performance in a wide variety of vehicles. Valvoline Import Multi-Vehicle ATF can also be used in many domestic vehicles. It meets requirements of General Motors and Ford vehicles. Recommended for use in the following applications: Ford MERCON®, GM DEXRON®-II and DEXRON®-III, BMW LT 71141 and ETL-7045E, Nissan/Infiniti Nissan ATF, Matic-D, Matic-K and Matic-J, Mitsubishi Diamond SP-II and SP-III, Subaru ATF-HP, Hyundai/ KIA SP-II and SP-III , Toyota/Lexus Type T, T-III and T-IV , Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 (except in CVTs) , Mercedes Benz NAG1 , Volvo passenger car (except AW-1), and Volkswagen/Audi TL52162. For CVT applications Valvoline recommends Valvoline Full Synthetic CVT Fluid.

Product Features:
  • Formulated with full-synthetic base stocks and advanced additive technology to meet the challenging demands of automatic transmissions
  • Enhanced anti-shudder protection for smooth shifting and maximum power transfer
  • Developed with anti-wear technology to help improve transmission durability
  • Engineered with a proprietary blend of base oils and advanced additives to provide better oil flow at low temperatures and greater film protection at higher temperatures
See More

Valvoline – SynPower Transmission & Differential Gear Oil: Full Synthetic 75W-90, 1 Gallon (Part No.882505)

SynPower Transmission & Differential Gear Oil: Full Synthetic 75W-90, 1 Gallon

from

$59.99
Valvoline SAE 75W-90 Full Synthetic Gear Oil provides the ultimate gear protection in hypoid rear differentials and non-synchronized manual transmissions. Engineered to outperform, our detergent package-based formulation contains Full Synthetic basestocks and special additives that help protect parts from rust and corrosion while providing exceptional high and low temperature protection and excellent thermal stability, especially in demanding driving situations such as towing and off-roading. It contains an extreme pressure additive for better load carrying capacity, wear resistance additives that assist in protecting gear teeth, a limited slip additive for optimal clutch pack performance, and an anti-foaming agent for better lubrication and service life. Valvoline 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. Protect your gears with Valvoline, the No. 1 gear oil brand.

Product Features:
  • EXCEPTIONAL HIGH AND LOW TEMPERATURE PROTECTION , ranging from -30F to 300F degrees
  • REDUCES CHATTERING AND PROTECTS GEAR TEETH from oxidation, rust, and wear
  • FIGHTS CORROSION AND RUST with emulsifying agents and safeguards against impurities, oxidation and thermal breakdown
  • MEETS THE DEMANDS OF CONVENTIONAL AND LIMITED SLIP HYPOID DIFFERENTIALS where APPI GL-5 is specified, as well as non-synchronized manual transmissions that require API GL-4 or MT-1 fluid
  • MEETS OR EXCEEDS THE PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS for Mack GO-H and GO-J; API GL-5 and API MT-1; MIL-PRF-2105E; and SAE J2360
See More

Most Popular Front Differential Pinion Bearings for 1981 Volkswagen Vanagons

Enhance your 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon with one of the 4 Front Differential Pinion Bearings we have in stock, starting at just $8.79.

National – Bearings (Part No.M86649)

Bearings

from

$18.79
National Oil Seals & Bearings offer a full line of premium oil seals and bearings.

Product Features:
  • Premium bearing design matches OEM specifications
  • Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • Crowned raceways and rollers to ensure even load distribution for maximum life
  • Industry leading coverage
  • Professional technicians know they can depend on National
See More

Driveworks – Taper Bearing Cone (Part No.S-M-86649)

Taper Bearing Cone

from

$8.79
Value-priced bearing meets all cataloged application requirements.

Product Features:
  • Brand may vary by location
See More

SKF – Differential Pinion Bearing (Part No.J702012211SKF)

Differential Pinion Bearing

from

$48.08
Differential Pinion Bearing

FAG US – CONE (Part No.KM86649)

CONE

from

$18.99
CONE

Best-Selling 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differential Pinion Pilot Bearing

Upgrade your Vanagon with our best-selling Differential Pinion Pilot Bearing with a 5 Starts rating across 1 review.

National – Shaft Repair Sleeve (Part No.99177)

Shaft Repair Sleeve

from

$39.49
National® has built a reputation as one of the most respected names in the industry. We have offered premium sealing solutions for more than 75 years. Our design team keeps pace with the industry and provides advanced solutions for today’s vehicles.

Product Features:
  • Designed to repair damaged, grooved or worn shafts
  • Durable stainless steel construction for corrosion-free sealing surface that surpasses most original shaft specifications
  • Ideal for a shaft where indications of seal wear, such as tracks or grooves have developed
  • Ultra-thin construction (0.01/0.25mm wall thickness) allows original seal size to be used with minimal additional lip loading
  • Easy to install with removable flange and installation tool
  • Installation tool reduces sleeve distortion and allows for installation without removal from the shaft
See More

Top-Quality Differential Bearings for 1981 Volkswagen Vanagons

Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Differential Bearing for Volkswagen Vanagons and enjoy top-notch performance from $42.77.

National – Bearings (Part No.32010-X)

Bearings

from

$44.49
National Oil Seals & Bearings offer a full line of premium oil seals and bearings.

Product Features:
  • Premium bearing design matches OEM specifications
  • Precision manufactured using premium-grade steel for outstanding durability and performance
  • Matched cup and cone components ensures consistent quality and outstanding performance
  • Industry leading coverage
  • Professional technicians know they can depend on National
See More

INA – Differential Bearing (Part No.J7060654749INA)

Differential Bearing

from

$42.77
Differential Bearing

Top Picks for 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differential Oil

Invest in one of our 2 durable Differential Oil for your 1981 Ford, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.

Valvoline – Import Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Quart (Part No.822389)

Import Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Quart

from

$13.99
Valvoline Import Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid is specifically formulated for use in most Toyota, Nissan, Honda and other imported vehicles. It is formulated with all synthetic base stocks and a proprietary additive system to ensure optimal transmission performance in a wide variety of vehicles. Valvoline Import Multi-Vehicle ATF can also be used in many domestic vehicles. It meets requirements of General Motors and Ford vehicles. Recommended for use in the following applications: Ford MERCON, GM DEXRON-II and DEXRON-III, BMW LT 71141 and ETL-7045E, Nissan/Infiniti Nissan ATF, Matic-D, Matic-K and Matic-J, Mitsubishi Diamond SP-II and SP-III, Subaru ATF-HP, Hyundai/ KIA SP-II and SP-III, Toyota/Lexus Type T, T-III and T-IV, Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 (except in CVTs), Mercedes Benz NAG1, Volvo passenger car (except AW-1), and Volkswagen/Audi TL52162. For CVT applications Valvoline recommends Valvoline Full Synthetic CVT Fluid.

Product Features:
  • Formulated with full-synthetic base stocks and advanced additive technology to meet the challenging demands of automatic transmissions
  • Enhanced anti-shudder protection for smooth shifting and maximum power transfer
  • Developed with anti-wear technology to help improve transmission durability
  • Engineered with a proprietary blend of base oils and advanced additives to provide better oil flow at low temperatures and greater film protection at higher temperatures
See More

Valvoline – Import Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon (Part No.820681)

Import Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon

from

$36.99
Valvoline Import Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid is specifically formulated for use in most Toyota, Nissan, Honda and other imported vehicles. It is formulated with all synthetic base stocks and a proprietary additive system to ensure optimal transmission performance in a wide variety of vehicles. Valvoline Import Multi-Vehicle ATF can also be used in many domestic vehicles. It meets requirements of General Motors and Ford vehicles. Recommended for use in the following applications: Ford MERCON®, GM DEXRON®-II and DEXRON®-III, BMW LT 71141 and ETL-7045E, Nissan/Infiniti Nissan ATF, Matic-D, Matic-K and Matic-J, Mitsubishi Diamond SP-II and SP-III, Subaru ATF-HP, Hyundai/ KIA SP-II and SP-III , Toyota/Lexus Type T, T-III and T-IV , Honda/Acura ATF-Z1 (except in CVTs) , Mercedes Benz NAG1 , Volvo passenger car (except AW-1), and Volkswagen/Audi TL52162. For CVT applications Valvoline recommends Valvoline Full Synthetic CVT Fluid.

Product Features:
  • Formulated with full-synthetic base stocks and advanced additive technology to meet the challenging demands of automatic transmissions
  • Enhanced anti-shudder protection for smooth shifting and maximum power transfer
  • Developed with anti-wear technology to help improve transmission durability
  • Engineered with a proprietary blend of base oils and advanced additives to provide better oil flow at low temperatures and greater film protection at higher temperatures
See More

Our Differential Drain Plugs for 1981 Volkswagen Vanagons

Make a smart move for your 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon with our Differential Drain Plug for $11.02.

Worldpac – DIFFERENTIAL DRAIN P (Part No.J70651322441VNE)

DIFFERENTIAL DRAIN P

from

$11.02
DIFFERENTIAL DRAIN P

Top-Rated Differential Brands For Your 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon

When it comes to finding the perfect Differential for your 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon, Advance Auto Parts has you covered with a wide selection of high-quality OEM and aftermarket options from 7 trusted brands. We carry the most popular Differential brands including Valvoline and National, and more, all known for their exceptional customer ratings (average brand rating of 4.8 stars) and competitive prices, as low as $13.99. Purchasing a Differential from us here at Advance Auto Parts is a smart move for both you and your 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon, providing peace of mind with parts that meet or exceed OEM standards.

Popular Valvoline 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differentials

If you’re looking for a top-quality Differential for your 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon, Advance Auto Parts has exactly what you need with our selection of Valvoline Differentials. We have 2 Valvoline Differentials in stock for this fitment, all known for their durability and precision fit. With prices starting at just $13.99 and an average cost of $25.49, you’ll find the perfect Differential for your needs and budget. Valvoline Differentials for the 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon come highly rated, with over 16 customer reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.8 stars. Choosing a Valvoline Differential from Advance Auto Parts is a smart move to ensure quality and value for your vehicle.
Import Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon
from $36.99
(8)
Import Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Gallon
“Product works as it should”
Import Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Quart
from $13.99
(8)
Import Multi-Vehicle Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, 1 Quart
“My 1999 Honda Accord 4-cylinder has over 250K miles and a drain and fill takes exactly 3 quarts of Import ATF. I do this with every oil change. No pro”

Top-Quality National 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differentials

For those in search of a high-quality Differential for their 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon, Advance Auto Parts offers a great selection of National Differentials. With 2 National Differentials in stock, you can trust you’re getting top-tier parts designed for durability and a perfect fit. Prices for these Differentials start at just $18.79, with an average price of $29.14, giving you a range of options to suit your budget. Backed by over 4 customer ratings and an average rating of 4.3 stars, National Differentials provide both reliability and excellent performance. Choosing a National Differential from Advance Auto Parts is a smart investment in your vehicle’s performance and longevity.
Bearings
from $18.79
(3)
Bearings
“as advertised”
Shaft Repair Sleeve
from $39.49
(1)
Shaft Repair Sleeve
“Easy to use, too early to tell how long it will last. It did stop the oil leak with a new oil seal on the front crankshaft pulley. 87 mercedes 300td.”

FAQs for 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differentials

What are the best-selling Differentials for 1981 Volkswagen Vanagons?

Out of 10 Differentials that fit 1981 Volkswagen Vanagons, the following parts are the top sellers:

What’s the price range for 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differentials?

The prices of Differentials for the 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon range from $8.79 up to $48.08 for the most premium parts.

What is the average price of a Differentials Differential for a 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon?

The average price for Differentials for the 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon is $28.34. Keep in mind the variety of part types within our Differential category, where you are likely to find a wide range of prices across a variety of parts and components.

Does Advance Auto Parts sell Differentials for other Volkswagen Vanagon model years?

Yes, we carry Differentials for 10 model years of Volkswagen Vanagons between 1980 and 1991. The following model years are the most popular for Differential purchases: 1991, 1990, 1989, 1988, 1987, 1986, 1985, 1984, and 1983.

What are the cheapest Differentials for my 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon?

The cheapest 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differentials we carry are:

Does Advance Auto Parts sell Differentials for any other 1981 Volkswagen models?

Yes. We stock Differentials for 5 other popular 1981 Volkswagen models. Some of the most popular are 1981 Jetta Differentials, 1981 Rabbit Differentials, 1981 Scirocco Differentials, 1981 Rabbit Pickup Differentials, and 1981 Dasher Differentials.

What are the top-rated Differentials that fit the 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon?

Based on 60 reviews by customers, our 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differentials have an average customer rating of 5 stars. These are the highest-rated categories of Differentials for the 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon and their top-rated products:

What types of Differentials do you sell for my 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon?

As of 4/10/25, these are some of the most in-demand types of Differentials for a 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon:

Can I get help with 1981 Volkswagen Vanagon Differential orders?

Contact our customer support team by chat or phone, through the help desk page, where you can find instant answers about Volkswagen Differentials and more.

What is your return policy for Volkswagen Vanagon Differentials?

Advance Auto Parts keeps returns simple. For new Volkswagen Vanagon Differentials and accessories, your online orders can be returned, in their original condition, within 45 days. For requirements, see the returns page.