Posted on 2/28/2025
Your car’s differential is a key part of the drivetrain, but most drivers don’t think about it until there’s a problem. No matter what type of vehicle you drive—rear-wheel, front-wheel, or all-wheel-drive—the differential ensures smooth handling, especially when turning. If it starts to wear out or fails, you’ll notice it in your car’s performance. So, how can you tell if something’s wrong before it turns into an expensive repair? What Does a Differential Do A differential allows your wheels to rotate at different speeds while turning. When a car moves in a straight line, both wheels on an axle spin at the same rate, however, when you turn, the wheels must rotate at different speeds—the outer wheel covers more distance than the inner wheel. The differential makes this possible by distributing engine power between the wheels, ensuring a smooth and controlled turn. Types of Differentials Different ... read more