Lee's Summit Total Auto
512 Southwest 3rd Street, Lees Summit, MO 64063 816.525.0414
Question:
What is a differential and why do Lees Summit drivers need to have it serviced?
Lee's Summit Total Auto 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). Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit, 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit drivers to have them serviced on schedule at Lee's Summit Total Auto in Lees Summit to avoid premature wear. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Lee's Summit Total Auto.
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Lee's Summit Total Auto
512 Southwest 3rd Street
Lees Summit, MO 64063
816.525.0414
At Lee's Summit Total Auto we install quality NAPA replacement parts.