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Differentials
It's true, we love differentials, so much in fact, our shop carries the name! A differential repair or overhaul requires patience and precise measurements. Ample experience in the repair is a must, so if you have an unpracticed technician that doesn't take his/her time it will be very apparent the second you drive out of the parking lot. As one of few shops that offer this service you can be certain you're getting a top quality repair, with the best parts for your make and model. Learn more about your vehicle's differential system below.
*Image courtesy of ClearMechanic.com
What is a Differential?
Your vehicle is made up of many complex systems. These systems work together to keep you moving on the road. The differential is one of those systems and a key player. Every car is equipped with the differential system.
The differential system is what really helps us navigate our turns. The planetary gears in the housing allow your wheels to move at different speeds. This is important because when you navigate a turn the outside wheel needs to travel farther than the inside wheel, which means in must also travel faster.
How Does a Differential Work?
There are a lot of components to the differential system. The most known and main parts are the ring and pinion gears. The carrier assembly also houses smaller gears. These smaller gears are called satellite or spider gears. The spider gears rotate around the side gears in the carrier. These guys are the component that take the rotational energy and direct it towards your wheels allowing the differential action to occur.
The carrier then drives the smaller pinon gears, which in turn drive the side gears. The drive axles are splined into the side gears, which then drive the wheels.
All late model vehicles have a differential in the front and/or back. It depends on whether you have a front, rear wheel or all wheel drive vehicle. There are also different types of differential systems: open differentials, limited slip differentials, locking differentials and torque-vectoring differentials. There are different reasons why one might be better for you and your vehicle and that is something you can discuss with our team
Signs a Differential Is Wearing Down
Like many parts of the vehicle the differential requires regular maintenance. Over time, like many parts of your vehicle, the differential can start to wear out. It’s good to know some of the signs that could indicate yours is starting to go bad so you can have it checked sooner rather than later.
Some things to watch out for include:
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Driveline noise and vibrations
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Grinding or clunking sounds
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Strange sounds when handling around corners
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Whining or whirring sounds
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Oil leaking from the differential area
Your differential plays a key role in helping steer your vehicle and keeps the power balanced between your tires. Be sure to keep it in good condition so you can remain safe while driving.
