Why Should You Have a Differential Serviced?

When most drivers think about vehicle maintenance, they picture oil changes, brakes, or tire rotations. But there’s another critical component that often gets overlooked: your differential. Whether you drive a truck, SUV, or passenger car, the differential plays a key role in how smoothly and safely your vehicle operates.

What Is a Differential?

The differential is a set of gears that allows your wheels to rotate at different speeds while turning. Without it, your vehicle’s tires would skid or drag every time you make a turn. Trucks, rear-wheel drive vehicles, and four-wheel drive systems all rely heavily on their differentials to transfer power efficiently.

Why Differential Service Is Important

Over time, the fluid inside your differential breaks down and becomes contaminated. This can lead to:

• Increased friction and wear on gears and bearings

• Overheating, which reduces efficiency and power

• Expensive repairs if parts seize, strip, or break

By having your differential fluid replaced at the recommended intervals, you’re extending the life of your drivetrain and avoiding unnecessary breakdowns.

Signs Your Differential Needs Service

If you notice any of the following, it’s time to schedule a checkup:

• Whining, clunking, or grinding noises from the rear or front of your vehicle

• Excessive vibration while driving

• Fluid leaks near the axles

• Difficulty turning smoothly

How Often Should You Service a Differential?

Most manufacturers recommend servicing your differential every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. Heavy towing, off-roading, or hauling loads can shorten that interval. Always check your owner’s manual for exact guidelines.

Protect Your Investment

Replacing or repairing a differential can cost thousands of dollars. Routine servicing is a relatively inexpensive way to protect your vehicle’s performance and reliability for years to come.

Schedule Your Differential Service in Phoenix Area

At Airport Truck & Auto Repair, we provide professional differential inspections, fluid changes, and repairs for trucks, SUVs, and cars. Our ASE-certified mechanics make sure your drivetrain runs smoothly so you can drive with confidence.

📞 Call us today at 602-252-8255  to schedule your differential service and keep your vehicle running strong.