Changing the differential fluid is a common procedure. But often, it is ignored for a long time. which can lead to a serious fault in the differential. This leaves the option of getting repairs done later.
But if you change the differential fluid over time, the differential system of the vehicle may be able to function for a long time.
What is A Differential In The Vehicles
A differential is a gear set typically used in vehicles with three wheels or more. in which the crown ring, pinion, and spider gear are fitted. The differential transfers the torque power of the engine through the drive shaft to the drive wheels via the wheel axles.
The differential changes the vehicle’s straight-line direction and the speed of the drive wheels when turning. so that the vehicle can easily turn in any direction and the tires of the vehicle can move in any condition without any friction.
What Is A Differential Fluid
Differential fluid is a thick fluid that lubricates the internal parts of a differential, including the crown ring, pinion, and spider gear, thereby reducing gear and pinion noise and gear friction. The differential fluid prevents the differential system from overheating, so the differential can function properly without any problems.
In many front-wheel-drive vehicles, the differential is fitted internally to the transmission, and the differential system shares the transmission fluid.
What Does Differential Fluid Do?
Differential fluid is a thick lubricating fluid, due to which the parts inside the differential are smooth and work properly. This fluid is usually fed into the housing of the axle.
Differential fluid is designed for higher pressures as opposed to higher temperatures than engine oil. This fluid is used to reduce the friction between the gears made of any metal.
- Differential fluid lubricates the crown ring, pinion and spider gears.
- Differential fluid reduces noise when moving differentially.
- This prevents the fluid differential from overheating.
- Differential fluid reduces the wear of metal parts. Due to this, the differential works for a long time.
- Reduces the cost and risk of differential fluid repair.
How Often Should The Differential Fluid Be Changed?
Vehicle manufacturers typically suggest changing the rear differential fluid between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, and in front-wheel-drive vehicles, it is recommended to keep the fluid replaced between 25,000 and 45,000 miles, depending on the vehicle’s operation and driving.
Because replacing the differential fluid can be a cheaper and safer procedure than repair, Always refer to the vehicle’s service manual to find out how to change the differential fluid, so you will be able to get accurate information about the vehicle’s running miles and service details.
Disadvantages of Low Levels of Differential Fluid
If a vehicle is driven for a long time when the differential fluid level is low.
- The differential gears may start to wear out. And after some time, the differential system can make noise.
- The gears inside the differential may wear out or break.
- Driving long distances when the differential fluid level is low can lead to differential overheating.
- And some differential systems may fail completely.
- And you may be unable to reduce the differential while turning the vehicle.
What Does Differential Fluid Look Like?
Differential fluid is a kind of thick, lubricating fluid that has a strange smell. Differential fluid comes in two main varieties.
1. Natural Fluid – A mineral oil, which is a naturally occurring fluid made from crude oil.
2. Synthetic Fluid -.The second is laboratory-produced synthetic differential fluid. Like all synthetic oils, synthetic differential fluid can be formulated to perform well, which can reduce the wear of any metal by lubricating it.
FAQ’s
Q. How often should the differential fluid be changed?
Changing the differential fluid on any vehicle Different companies recommend different miles depending on the model and size of the vehicle.
The differential fluid and service manual book is always referred to for vehicle owner satisfaction. It is generally recommended to change the rear differential fluid between 30.000 and 60,000 miles and the front differential fluid from 25,000 to 45,000 miles.
Banty is the owner of Autorepairszone.com & is also a vehicle mechanic by profession. We have almost 12 years of experience in the field of automotive repair, and we strive to provide you with accurate information about vehicle malfunctions and repairs based on our experience.