Differential Service
March 31, 2024
When you're driving and turn a corner, you probably aren't aware of all that's going on with your wheels. The outside wheels have a longer distance to travel than the inside wheels, so there are gears that allow the wheels to go at different speeds when you turn.
That set of gears is called a differential. In front-wheel drive vehicles, it's by the transmission and called a transaxle. Rear-wheel drive vehicles have the differential, naturally, on the rear axle. Many all-wheel and four-wheel drives add a center differential since power has to go to the front and rear wheels. (Some newer vehicles power wheels with electric motors, but that's a whole different story.)
Time and distance traveled eventually can take their toll on the differential, and you may notice some noises you hadn't heard when your vehicle was newer. Sometimes you'll hear a whir that might change in pitch when you turn. You may hear clicking sounds when you're moving. Others describe rumbling sounds coming from underneath during a turn. Another symptom of possible differential problems may be vibrations or shakes the faster you go.
All of these could be signs that you have problems with a differential. One common cause of differential problems is the gears aren't getting enough lubrication.
These can all have serious effects on your driving. You may find it hard to turn, or your wheels may lock up. That could put you or drivers around you in a dangerous position.
It's better to take care of differential problems before they get too serious. Bring in your vehicle so we can have a technician check yours out. They can see if there are any differential fluid leaks or failing gaskets. In some cases, we may recommend your differential fluid be replaced. And if there are any mechanical issues, some components may need to be replaced as well.
When your differential is maintained, you'll be doing your vehicle a good turn.
Commerce Auto Repair
9575 Commerce Rd.
Commerce, Michigan 48382
248.363.3749
Need Service?
More articles from Commerce Auto Repair
Steering You Right (Power Steering Fluid Service)
January 5, 2025
Its important for safe driving that two of the most important systems in your vehicle work right. One is the brakes. The other is the steering. Nearly all vehicles on the road have some sort of power steering that allows you to direct a very heavy machine with little effort. There are two ty... More
Putting a Stop to Brake Problems (Brake Service)
December 29, 2024
It's safe to say that most drivers take their brakes for granted. You press on the brake pedal and the vehicle slows down or stops. It's easy to see why it is so important for your vehicle's brakes to be working correctly. Brakes are an important safety feature of any vehicle. When it comes to... More
In That Case? (Transfer Case Exchange)
December 22, 2024
Ever wonder how all-wheel-drive or 4-wheel-drive vehicles get the power from the engine to the front and rear wheels? The magic happens in what's called a transfer case. In some all-wheel-drive vehicles, it's sometime called a power take-off unit, or PTU. Inside the transfer case is a set of gea... More