Rene's Garage
56 Armstrong St New Liskeard, ON P0J 1P0 705-647-8242

Simple Answers from Rene's Garage for New Liskeard: Differential Service

Last Updated: Jul 01, 2025

Question:
What is a differential and why do New Liskeard drivers need to have it serviced?

Rene's Garage Answer:
First of all – your vehicle does have a differential. If it’s a rear wheel drive, your differential is on the back. If it’s front wheel drive, your differential is built into your transaxle (transmission). New Liskeard drivers with all wheel drive or four wheel drive will have differentials front and rear and maybe one in between.

When you are steering through a turn at an intersection in New Liskeard, the wheels on the outside of the vehicle have to spin faster than the inside wheels because they have to travel a slightly longer distant through the curve. The differential compensates for these speed differences between the wheels.

Because it is part of the vital equipment that transfers engine power to the wheels, the differential is working pretty hard. Differential fluid – a special heavy-duty oil, cools, lubricates and protects the differential. It needs to be replaced on a schedule to remove metal shavings and other contaminants. Note: if you have a front wheel drive vehicle, replacing your transmission fluid takes care of your differential service needs.

Differentials have become increasingly sophisticated for New Liskeard drivers. Rather than the simple mechanical devices of yesteryear, they are more complicated and may actually be part of the vital computer controlled vehicle stability system. This means they are more pricey so it pays for New Liskeard drivers to have them serviced on schedule at Rene's Garage in New Liskeard to avoid premature wear. Talk to your Rene's Garage service advisor.

Stop by or give us a call.

Rene's Garage
56 Armstrong St Po Box 369
New Liskeard, ON P0J 1P0
705-647-8242


At Rene's Garage we install quality NAPA replacement parts.