Differential Service and Repair in Albany, CA
There is an assortment of mechanisms under the hood of a vehicle that functions persistently to execute a singular important task - producing and safely providing power to spin the wheels. A differential is an essential part of these mechanisms, which conveys power to the wheel and enables them to turn at different speeds. Timely differential repair is crucial to prevent any damage to the wheels or other mechanical parts of the vehicle.
Adam Autoworx is an AAA-approved & AAA Shop of the Year auto repair shop that offers differential service in Albany, CA. You are welcome to bring in your vehicle for differential repair or any other auto repair service.
Introduction to Differential
A differential is a closed mechanical system of gears containing its own lubricating fluid. It performs 2 main functions:
- Distributes engine power to the wheels
- Allows the wheels to spin at different speeds
When the vehicle turns around a corner, a differential balances the difference in distance between the wheels by proportionally splitting the engine torque between them. As a result, the wheel that has to travel longer distances faces less resistance and rotates faster, whereas the one that travels short distances encounters more resistance and rotates slowly. The differential is vital to keep the wheels from slipping and spinning out of control if the vehicle gets stuck in mud or snow, or driving in a snowstorm, or for rock climbing and similar activities.
Types of Differential
The most common types of differential include:
- Open Differential
- Locked Differential
- Limited-Slip Differential
- Torque vectoring Differential
Signs of a Failing Differential
The compact assembly of gears in the differential is lubricated by differential oil. With continuous functioning, this lubricating oil can get contaminated or low, resulting in abrasion of the parts and other problems. The vehicle may show some signs that indicate a failing differential needing prompt replacement or servicing.
- Vibrations
- Grinding noise from the gears
- Whining or rattling noise
- Leaking differential fluid
- Difficult to drive while cutting a corner
- Apparent damage to the tires
Importance of Differential Repair
The appearance of any of the above-mentioned signs can point toward an issue within the differential assembly and can lead to a driving accident. It becomes difficult to control a vehicle with a bad differential during turning, offroading, or driving in snow. To prevent these mishappenings, repair, or service of the differential is essential.
At Adam Autoworx, we service your vehicle to repair any failing differential and replenishing it with new oil. Our ASE certified technicians provide vehicle repair and maintenance services and offer original equipment quality parts. We provide contactless pick and drop service and a 36 months/36,000 miles nationwide warranty.
Give us a call with any questions or schedule a visit using our online appointment form today.