Differential & Transfer Case Service
DO DIFFERENTIALS MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
We perform services on front and rear differentials as well as transfer cases. Why? Well, to make sure your car’s turning system is working, of course!
The differential and transfer case, as well as the CV joints, boots, and axles, are all part of your vehicle's drivetrain. These collective parts function together in transferring power from the transmission to the wheels. This may seem as clear as mud, so we'll breakdown the role the differential and transfer case play in your car.
What Is A Differential And Transfer Case?
The differential is a mechanical component located on the axle that allows your left and right wheels to rotate at different speeds. When your car turns, the outer wheel has to turn faster than the inner wheel because the length of the paths they take is different.
Now, let's step it up a notch. If a vehicle has a differential on both the front and rear axles, it needs a transfer case to direct power separately to each of the differentials. In other words, the transfer case does for differentials, what differentials do for the wheels.
Do You Have A Front Or Rear Differential?
How do you know if your car has a differential on the front, the rear, or both? This depends on how the wheels of your vehicle are powered. If your car is front-wheel drive, it will have only a front differential, and vice versa for rear-wheel drive vehicles. All-wheel drive vehicles contain both a front and rear differential.
Do Differentials and Transfer Cases Require Regular Maintenance?
Differentials and transfer cases are filled with fluid to lubricate their internal components and dissipate heat. If this fluid becomes compromised by foreign particles, excessive heat, pressure, or even water, this can cause damage. When these parts become impaired, the gears inside can lock up (not good), causing the wheels to seize up (really not good).
You should have your differential and transfer case fluid checked every 30,000 miles, or when you experience any of the symptoms below. Changing these fluids is a messy job, but your local Brakes Plus team is here to help – we never mind getting our hands dirty!
Signs & Symptoms You May Need Differential and Transfer Case Service
Howling sound when accelerating
Whirring noise when decelerating
Clicking or clunking sound at regular intervals
Banging or rumbling noises when turning a corner
Fluid leaking under the vehicle's axles
Smell of burning oil
Vibration that increases with acceleration
Front or rear wheels seizing up
What’s Included In A Differential Or Transfer Case Service?
Check for leaks and damage
Drain old fluid
Fill with appropriate new fluid type
Reseal differential cover (when applicable)
If you are experiencing any of the orchestral phenomenons or other signs we listed above, you either already have a problem, or you’re likely about to have one. So, quickly and easily schedule an appointment for one of our experts to take a look today!