Clay County Transmission & AutoCare
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Simple Answers from Clay County Transmission & AutoCare for Jacksonville: Differential Service

Last Updated: Mar 22, 2017

Simple

Question:
What is a differential and why do I need to have it serviced?

Clay County Transmission & AutoCare Answer:
First of all – your vehicle does have a differential. If it's a rear wheel drive vehicle, the differential is what is rotating the rear wheels pushing the it forward or reverse. If it's front wheel drive, your differential is built into your transaxle (transmission). If you have a 4 wheel drive or all wheel drive vehicle you have 2 differentials. One to drive the front wheels and one to drive the rear.

When you are steering through a turn at an intersection in Jacksonville, the wheels on the outside of the vehicle have to spin faster than the inside wheels because they have to travel a slightly longer distant through the curve. The differential compensates for these speed differences between the wheels.

Because it is part of the equipment that transfers engine power to the wheels, the differential is working pretty hard. Differential fluid – a special heavy-duty oil – cools, lubricates and protects the differential. It needs to be replaced on a schedule to remove metal shavings and other contaminants. Note: if you have a front wheel drive vehicle, replacing your transmission fluid takes care of your differential service needs (on most vehicles).

Differentials have become increasingly more sophisticated and rather than the simple mechanical devices of yesteryear, they are more complicated and may actually be part of the computer controlled vehicle stability system. This means they are more taxed, so it pays for you to have them serviced on schedule at Clay County Transmission & AutoCare in Jacksonville to avoid premature wear. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Clay County Transmission & AutoCare.

Give us a call.

Clay County Transmission & AutoCare
8333 103rd Street
Jacksonville, FL 32210
904-619-4631
http://www.cctransandautocare.com

At Clay County Transmission & AutoCare we install quality NAPA replacement parts.