Gearing Up (Differential Fluid Service)
January 4, 2026
You may have never thought about it, but when you turn a corner, the wheels on one side of your vehicle turn at a different speed than the other side. What is this magic? The answer is something called the differential.
A differential is a gear box placed between the drive wheels and needs lubrication to work. Over time, that fluid can become contaminated, reducing its effectiveness. You likely won’t be able to detect any signs that it’s happening, though it may get a little noisier over time.
If you continue to drive with contaminated and degraded differential fluid, the gears may wear prematurely. That can also contribute to excess wear on the drive-wheel tires.
Two-wheel drive vehicles have one differential while all-wheel and 4-wheel drive vehicles will have two or three. Your vehicle’s manufacturer has guidelines on how often you should have the differential fluid changed, and we recommend you follow those.
Changing the differential fluid is different depending on what model and year of vehicle you own. Some have a drain plug so the fluid can be removed and replaced. In others, a cover and gasket on the differential will have to be removed and replaced.
Because differentials have constantly moving parts, they generate heat. That’s why some have a vent to help dissipate the heat caused by friction, and sometimes that vent will need replacing.
When you bring your vehicle in for differential fluid replacement, our technician will also inspect the differential for other issues and test drive it to make sure it’s operating the way it should.
TLC Custom Exhaust Brakes & Tires
1735 N Main St
Royal Oak, Michigan 48067
248-541-8300
http://www.tlcautocareroyaloak.com
Need Service?
More articles from TLC Auto Care
Cabin Air Filter and Engine Air Filter: What’s the Difference?
April 26, 2026
You may have heard someone say they just got the air filter replaced in their vehicle. But did you know your vehicle has two different major air filters and they both perform quite differentbut very importantduties? Todays vehicles have a cabin air filter, and an engine air filter. The engine a... More
Royal Oak Road Trip Preparation
April 19, 2026
People from Royal Oak, Michigan, love their cars. And nothing goes with cars better than a Michigan road trip. Freedom from daily schedules, new sights and the open road it's great! But there's nothing like car trouble to bring the fun to a grinding halt.You can't always avoid problems, but yo... More
No Fountain of Youth (Aging Tires)
April 15, 2026
Can you think of anyone who enjoys aging? Wrinkles where you don't want them, gray hair, eyes that won't focus any more, no stamina. Believe it or not, your tires age, too, and they don't get better the older they get. And here's the important thing to know, even if they can still pass a trea... More