Back to all

Differential Service at Tuffy Bonita Springs: Viva la Difference

September 4, 2022

Every vehicle on Florida roads has a differential, and it is important to the proper operation of the vehicle.  But most Bonita Springs residents don't have a clue what it is.

The differential compensates for differing wheel speeds. For example, when you turn, the inside tire on the turn travels a much shorter distance than the outside wheel. So the inside wheel of the vehicle must move at a slower speed than the outside wheel. Without a differential, the wheels would hop and scrape while turning.

Have you ever seen the large bulge in the middle of the rear axle of a truck? That's the differential. In a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the differential is located on the back axle. Four-wheel drive vehicles and SUV's have differentials on both the front and the rear axle.

You might expect that the differential is located on the front axle of a front-wheel drive vehicle. You'd be right. But the differential is called a transaxle on a front-wheel drive vehicle because its location allows it to be combined with the transmission.

In an all-wheel drive vehicle, an additional differential or transfer case is located between the front and rear axles. Differentials are strong: They have to be because of the job they do. But those tough parts need proper lubrication. You don't want your differential to seize up. That results in damage to your vehicle.

So you need to have your vehicle differential serviced regularly. It's not a complicated job. At Tuffy Bonita Springs in Bonita Springs, we've been servicing differentials for years. The used lubricating fluid is simply drained and then replaced. Some vehicles require specific additives in the differential fluid; your Bonita Springs service center will ensure you are getting what your vehicle needs.

The intervals in time or mileage for servicing your differential vary greatly from vehicle to vehicle. Check with your owner's manual or Tuffy Bonita Springs service advisor to find out how often your vehicle differential needs to be serviced.

Tuffy Bonita Springs
27790 S. Tamiami Trail
Bonita Springs, Florida 34134
239-498-9940
https://www.tuffybonitasprings.com

Need Service?

Request a Quote

More articles from Tuffy Bonita Springs

Automotive Tips from Tuffy Bonita Springs: When to Replace Your Wiper Blades

July 21, 2024

There are several important factors that go into how often Bonita Springs drivers should replace their wiper blades. Of course, the more you use your wipers, the faster the blades will wear out especially if you use them on an icy windshield. Whether its a lot of bugs and road grime from Florida... More

Fuel Saving Tip: Fuel System Cleaning Near Bonita Springs, Florida

July 14, 2024

A lot of fuel is wasted in the Bonita Springs area by dirty fuel delivery systems in vehicles.Let's start at the tank. The gas tank gathers dirt, rust and sediment over the years. That's why there's a fuel filter to clean the fuel after it leaves the tank. A dirty filter will rob the engine of th... More

Busted! Air Conditioning (Air Conditioning Maintenance)

July 7, 2024

Your vehicle's air conditioning is something you count on when the weather heats up. But there's bound to be a day when you turn it on and one of these things happens: Only warm air blows out Cold air starts blowing out but then it turns warm on its own It's not blowing air at all It blows smel... More