How do you break in a new differential?
New Gear Break-In Procedure
- After light use for the first 15-20 miles, stop and let the differential cool before proceeding any further. Repeat this process two or three times.
- Avoid heavy acceleration and don’t do any towing during the first 500 miles.
- We highly recommend changing the oil after the first 500 miles.
When does a car differential need to be repaired?
In the majority of cases, the differential lasts the life of the car without any issues, but the longer you drive the car, the more you need to become aware of the differential’s behavior. Most differential problems occur in vehicles with more than 150,000 miles on the odometer.
Where is the differential located on a rear wheel drive car?
On a front-wheel drive vehicle, there is a transaxle. This single unit combines the transmission with the differential. In fact, the term transaxle can be used interchangeably in these vehicles to describe the differential or transmission. Rear-wheel drive vehicles use an independent differential located between the two rear wheels.
What to look for when your differential goes bad?
When a differential begins to go bad, it usually starts with mild symptoms that will soon escalate quickly. Since the differential is virtually silent when it’s working properly, unusual noises will typically be your first indication of a problem. Here’s what to look/listen for, specifically: Whistling noise.
How many miles between fluid changes is car design specific?
How many miles between fluid changes is car design specific. If the owner’s manual says 30 K , then that’s when to change it. And be sure to use the exact fluid Subaru recommends. The gear shapes in differentials are complex and require the proper fluid.
How much does it cost to repair a bad front differential?
If you catch it early, the fix could be as simple as a gear oil change. The average cost of repairing bad front differentials and rear differentials will depend on the severity of their condition. Generally speaking, it should not cost more than $400 to repair most rear or front differentials.
Where does the differential go on a rear wheel drive car?
The differential adjusts the speed between the wheels so your car can make the turn smoothly. Standard rear-wheel drive vehicles have the differential on the rear axle; front-wheel drives on the transaxle; and all-wheel drive vehicles have them on front and rear.
When to go to the mechanic for a bad differential?
A failing differential is likely to upset the cornering ability of your vehicle and make it feel unstable. Anytime you notice handling difficulties when turning or going around a corner, get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can to have it checked out.
How often do you change the rear differential fluid?
Between the metal filings and the breakdown of the fluid, you must change the rear differential fluid every once in a while. Your maintenance for this component will also involve changing the gear oil as a preventative measure against damaging the interior gears, which are the pinion gear and ring gear.