Differential Repair – Rear End Rebuild

Differential Repair

Clackamas and S.E. Portland OR

Rear End Differential Repair

The differential in your vehicle has very important functions; it acts as the final gear reduction between your transmission and drive wheels as well as allowing for the difference in speed between your two drive wheels while cornering.

When you are turning, the outside wheel on your car travels faster than the wheel on the inside of the turn. In a real tight turn, it is even possible that the inside wheel could actually move backward. If the drive axle on your car was one solid piece, the difference in speed between the two wheels would cause HUGE problems–and probably wreck your car!

What is the Differential?

In most cases, the “rear end” is just another name for your differential. This is the big “bump” between your wheels at the rear of your car, within the axle. The rear end differential is housed within that bump. That is where all the reduction and slip gears are that let the differential do its magic.

You also have a differential within your front axle, called the front differential.

Signs Your Differential Needs Repair

• A whining or rumble coming from the rear of the vehicle could be a sign of a differential that is in need of repair.
• A loud clank when going from sitting still to moving should be checked out.
• If the noises and symptoms seem to be worse when coasting, as compared to accelerating under power, you should have your differential checked out.

Types of Differential Repair

A bad differential or transfer case could cause serious and expensive damage to other components on your vehicle such as your transmission, not to mention also creating an unsafe driving condition. Here are some commonly needed differential repairs:

• Gasket replacement 
• Seal replacements  
• Bearing replacements 
• Rear differential gear replacements

If your differential’s gears are completely stripped, you most likely need a complete rear differential replacement. In some cases, a replacement is the wisest choice, especially if your differential has other worn components. Regular differential maintenance can help problems from becoming larger. Things like changing out gaskets or making sure the fluid is topped up can make a huge difference in the lifespan of your rear end.

Professional Differential Repair and Rebuild

If you have any questions about your differential or rear end, come by or give us a call! We will be happy to diagnose and service your vehicle if needed, and we’ll discuss all of your options before we do any work to your vehicle.