What is differential fluid replacement?

Do I need to flush the differential fluid? What does differential fluid do? When it comes to changing the fluid in the differential, this service often raises a lot of questions from drivers. Chapel Hill Tire's professional mechanics are always ready to help.

Mechanic Insights: What is a car differential? 

Before we dive into differential fluid maintenance, let's answer one common question we get from drivers: "What is a car's differential?" A car's differential allows the wheels to spin at different speeds. While you might think that all of your wheels are turning together, this is an essential feature for driving, especially when cornering.

Why? Imagine that you are making a sharp right turn around a street corner. Your left wheel will have to travel a long distance to make this turn, while your right wheel is moving only slightly. In order for your car to move at a constant speed, your wheels need to account for this rotational difference. 

What does differential fluid do?

Differential systems are based on many moving parts such as gears, bearings and more. They keep your wheels moving properly on every twist, turn and twisty road your vehicle encounters. This process generates a lot of heat, but requires proper flow of parts moving together. Thus, differential systems require fluid to lubricate, cool and protect these components. 

Over time, this fluid becomes depleted, contaminated, and ineffective, so your vehicle will need to change the differential fluid from time to time. 

How does a differential fluid change work?

During a differential fluid change, a professional auto mechanic will remove the old, contaminated fluid from the front or rear differential. By flushing out any contaminated liquid, they can ensure your service lasts as long as possible. They then fill the differential with clean, fresh fluid.

Do I need to flush the differential fluid?

On average, cars need a new differential fluid every 40,000-60,000 miles. However, every car has different requirements, so it's important to check your owner's manual for recommendations specific to your car. When all else fails, one of the surest ways to know if you need a differential fluid flush is to see your local auto mechanic. Your driving style and the roads in your area can affect how often you need new differential fluid. Therefore, professional understanding is the key to getting the services you need. 

Differential Fluid Service at Chapel Hill Tire

When you need to change your rear or front differential fluid, professional auto mechanics are here to help! We proudly serve the Great Triangle area with our 9 offices in Apex, Raleigh, Durham, Carrborough and Chapel Hill. We are also conveniently located in nearby areas including Wake Forest, Pittsboro, Cary and beyond. We invite you to make an appointment here online, view our coupon page, or call our experts to get started today!

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