Whether your vehicle is front-wheel, rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, it has at least one differential. In order to protect these important parts, you should have the differential fluid checked and changed at recommended intervals. Neglecting Differential Service may result in damaged ring and pinion gears that can leave your vehicle immobile.
The differential is critical to the smooth motion of your vehicle. It allows the wheels to turn at different speeds when you turn. For instance, when you turn a corner, your inside wheel has a shorter distance to travel than the outside wheel. The differential allows the outside wheel to turn more quickly to keep pace with the inside wheel. Without it, you would have a very difficult time turning your vehicle around corners.
Now that you understand the function of the differential, you can see why proper maintenance is crucial to the drivability of your vehicle. This very important part needs to be lubricated regularly to stay in good working condition. Over time, high temperatures can cause the lubricating fluid to break down and work improperly. Old and contaminated fluid loses its ability to protect the metal components and clutch plates in your differential. Replacing the fluid at proper intervals can help you avoid wear and damage to the gears in the differential.
Some of the benefits of differential service include:
- Protects ring and pinion gears from premature wear, rust and corrosion
- Protects clutch plates, especially in limited slip differentials
- Reduces heat level inside the differential
- Reduces friction levels between ring and pinion
- Keeps pinion and differential bearings lubricated
The intervals for servicing your differential vary from vehicle to vehicle. Consult your owner’s manual for more information or check with your local auto service shop. How and where you drive may impact your need for differential service as well.
The Havoline xpress lube located at 725 Hwy 66 South in Kernersville offers differential services for all types of vehicle. Stop by our location today to speak with one of our qualified auto specialists. We offer a variety of maintenance services and repairs to keep your vehicle in top condition.
