Gearing Up (Differential Fluid Service)
January 25, 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.
Auto Pro Troy
512 East Maple Rd.
Troy, Michigan 48083
248-270-3002
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