Palmer's Auto Care Center
1811 Addison Ave East, Twin Falls, ID 83301 208.735.8810
Question:
What is a differential and why do Twin Falls drivers need to have it serviced?
Palmer's Auto Care Center 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). Twin Falls 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 Twin Falls, 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 Twin Falls 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 Twin Falls drivers to have them serviced on schedule at Palmer's Auto Care Center in Twin Falls to avoid premature wear. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Palmer's Auto Care Center.
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Palmer's Auto Care Center
1811 Addison Ave East
Twin Falls, ID 83301
208.735.8810
At Palmer's Auto Care Center we install quality NAPA replacement parts.