Protech Auto Service
410 West J Street Ste G, Tehachapi, CA 93561 661.822.1100
Question:
What is a differential and why do Tehachapi drivers need to have it serviced?
Protech Auto Service Answer:
First of all – your vehicle does have a differential. If it's a rear wheel drive, your differential is on the back. If it's front wheel drive, your differential is built into your transaxle (transmission). Tehachapi drivers with all wheel drive or four wheel drive will have differentials front and rear and maybe one in between.
When you are steering through a turn at an intersection in Tehachapi, 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.
Differentials have become increasingly sophisticated for Tehachapi drivers. 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 Tehachapi drivers to have them serviced on schedule at Protech Auto Service in Tehachapi to avoid premature wear. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Protech Auto Service.
Give us a call.
Protech Auto Service
410 West J Street Ste G
Tehachapi, CA 93561
661.822.1100
At Protech Auto Service we install quality NAPA replacement parts.