Differential & Transfer Case Service

Brakes Plus® provides a front and rear differential service as well as transfer case service to determine if there are issues with your car’s turning system. The differential is the mechanical component that spins both the left and right wheels, but lets them rotate at different speeds so that the vehicle can make turns.  When a vehicle makes a turn, the outer wheel has to turn faster than the inner wheel, due to the difference in the length of the paths they take. The differential is located between the two wheels, and is attached to each wheel by an axle shaft.  Four-wheel drive vehicles have a separate differential for each pair of wheels, connected through a transfer case.

Differential and transfer case fluids provide lubrication to gears, bearings, shafts and other internal components. Heat, pressure and friction can slowly breakdown the additives in the fluid.  In addition, small particles of metal and clutch material may come off as they wear and these particles can mix with the fluid.  Fluids can also become contaminated with water.

TRANSFER CASE SERVICE WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Drain old fluid
• Fill with appropriate new fluid type and quantity.

REAR & FRONT DIFFERENTIAL SERVICE

Some vehicles may require additional costs, due to having to reseal differential cover; if leaking or if that is how we need to drain differential fluid.

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Drain old fluid
• Fill with appropriate new fluid type and quantity.
• Reseal differential cover (possible) – Some are identical to transfer case service

SYMPTOMS

• Noise from differential, transfer case
• Many symptoms are not noticeable until failure

BENEFITS

• Improved shifting performance
• Less wear and tear on internal parts
• Longer differential / transfer case life

How Often Does My Car Need New Transfer Case Fluid?

Transfer case fluid should normally be changed every 30,000 miles, especially if that vehicle is frequently in four-wheel drive or is used for towing. Check your vehicles manufacture recommendations. When your transfer case fluid becomes contaminated, due to carbon build up while cooling the hot drive-train components, your vehicle will begin to shudder when turning, or emit whining sounds.

Vehicles use either synthetic gear oil or traditional gear oil. This fluid removes heat and lubricates the parts within the transfer case. It’s important that these gears are kept cool and turning smoothly. If you are experiencing symptoms of contaminated transfer case fluid, call your local Brakes Plus today and we’ll make sure your vehicle is running safely and efficiently.