3 Symptoms of a Bad Differential
The rear differential is a critical component that enables rear-wheel drive. But abuse and neglect can both lead to failure. Identifying a differential problem early allows for cost-effective repairs before major damage occurs. In this guide, we’ll explain the symptoms of a bad differential, whether you can continue driving, and how much it might cost to replace it.
Symptoms of a Bad Differential
A failed differential in your vehicle can be accompanied by many secondary symptoms, some of which are more serious than others. Recognizing these symptoms will not only help you get the repair done quickly, but it will also help keep you safe.
Below are some of the most common symptoms associated with a bad differential.
#1 – Irregular Noises
If you suddenly notice a series of strange noises coming from under your car, it may be time to check your differential. The most common of these noises are creaking or rattling noises, which often indicate a problem with your transmission.
#2 – Difficulty Turning
If it suddenly becomes difficult to turn, it can also be a good sign that your car’s differential is in bad shape. It often feels like it can no longer turn accurately, and is often accompanied by a buzzing or humming noise.
#3 – Erratic or Accelerated Tire Wear
A failed rear differential can also cause erratic or accelerated tire wear. This accelerated wear is due to the fact that if the differential is defective, the tires are more likely to skid on the asphalt than they would be if they were turning at different speeds.
What does a differential do? The differential converts the torque provided by the vehicle’s engine into traction at each wheel end. Due to its internal design, the differential also has the unique ability to distribute this torque to each wheel in different ratios, allowing the vehicle’s wheels to spin at different speeds when negotiating curves.
The differential is also designed to be omnidirectional, allowing it to operate efficiently in both forward and reverse. A four-wheel drive vehicle actually has two complete differentials, one at each end of the drive system.
One of the most common causes of differential failure is a general lack of lubrication or the use of an improper differential lubricant. Most differentials employ an oil-bath lubrication system that bathes the contact surfaces in lubricant as they rotate, reducing friction.
Differential failure can also be the result of continued overuse. This occurs most often in trucks and SUVs that must tow loads that exceed the loads specified by the manufacturer. Transmissions can also fail due to repeated “jerking” or “pulling” when trying to pull a vehicle out of a ditch or move a large, immovable object.
Rarely, the internal components of the differential can wear out from years of use. This often occurs when one or more of the bearings: B. The pinion bearing has excessive play. Failure to replace these bearings as required can result in further bearing damage and eventual failure.
Can I drive with a broken differential?
In fact, attempting to do this can pose a significant safety risk as a failing differential could fail completely and lock up at any time. This can be dangerous, especially at relatively high speeds.
Additionally, a differential failure can prevent the rear wheels of your vehicle from turning at different speeds. This can cause your vehicle to skid when cornering, causing the wheels to slide disproportionately and making it nearly impossible to turn safely at any speed.
If you are not confident enough to perform such repairs yourself, you should make an appointment with a reputable auto service whenever possible.
