Bruce Automotive
422 E Northwest Hwy, Mount Prospect, IL 60056 847.253.5545
Question:
What is a differential and why do Mount Prospect drivers need to have it serviced?
Bruce Automotive 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). Mount Prospect 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 Mount Prospect, 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 Mount Prospect 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 Mount Prospect drivers to have them serviced on schedule at Bruce Automotive in Mount Prospect to avoid premature wear. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Bruce Automotive.
Give us a call.
Bruce Automotive
422 E. Northwest Highway
Mount Prospect, Illinois 60056
847-253-5545
At Bruce Automotive we install quality NAPA replacement parts.