Differentials & Transfer Case

What is a front differential? A rear differential? Do I have them?

Differentials have three jobs:

  1. To transfer the engine power to the wheels
  2. To act as the final gear reduction in the vehicle, slowing the rotational speed of the transmission one final time before it reaches the wheels
  3. To transmit power to the wheels allowing them to rotate at different speeds, hence the name differential. Some front wheel cars have a front differential, rear wheel drives have rear differential, and 4-wheel drive vehicles have both.

Does My Car Have a Transfer Case? What Is It?

4-wheel drive vehicles have a transfer case that transfers power from the transmission to the front differential. Servicing should occur regularly and may involve a very specific fluid that Davisivlle keeps in stock for you.