The Panacea Automotive Repair, Inc.
4215 Britton Road, Bellingham, WA 98226 360.715.9850
Question:
What is a differential and why do Bellingham drivers need to have it serviced?
The Panacea Automotive Repair, Inc. 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). Bellingham 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 Bellingham, 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham drivers to have them serviced on schedule at The Panacea Automotive Repair, Inc. in Bellingham to avoid premature wear. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable pros at The Panacea Automotive Repair, Inc..
Give us a call.
The Panacea Automotive Repair, Inc.
4215 Britton Road
Bellingham, WA 98226
360.715.9850
At The Panacea Automotive Repair, Inc. we install quality NAPA replacement parts.