Tuffy Sells Tires
FREE Wi-Fi
ASE Certified Technicians
Fast, Friendly Service
Complete Auto Repair
June 2, 2025
When you're driving and turn a corner, you probably aren't aware of all that's going on with your wheels. The outside wheels have a longer distance to travel than the inside wheels, so there are gears that allow the wheels to go at different speeds when you turn.
That set of gears is called a differential. In front-wheel drive vehicles, it's by the transmission and called a transaxle. Rear-wheel drive vehicles have the differential, naturally, on the rear axle. Many all-wheel and four-wheel drives add a center differential since power has to go to the front and rear wheels. (Some newer vehicles power wheels with electric motors, but that's a whole different story.)
Time and distance traveled eventually can take their toll on the differential, and you may notice some noises you hadn't heard when your vehicle was newer. Sometimes you'll hear a whir that might change in pitch when you turn. You may hear clicking sounds when you're moving. Others describe rumbling sounds coming from underneath during a turn. Another symptom of possible differential problems may be vibrations or shakes the faster you go.
All of these could be signs that you have problems with a differential. One common cause of differential problems is the gears aren't getting enough lubrication.
These can all have serious effects on your driving. You may find it hard to turn, or your wheels may lock up. That could put you or drivers around you in a dangerous position.
It's better to take care of differential problems before they get too serious. Bring in your vehicle so we can have a technician check yours out. They can see if there are any differential fluid leaks or failing gaskets. In some cases, we may recommend your differential fluid be replaced. And if there are any mechanical issues, some components may need to be replaced as well.
When your differential is maintained, you'll be doing your vehicle a good turn.
Tuffy Fort Myers (McGregor Blvd)
13061 McGregor Blvd
Fort Myers, Florida 33919
239-437-2993
http://www.tuffymcgregorblvd.com
June 29, 2025
Winter and freezing temperatures present challenges for different parts of your vehicles. For example, winter tires give you better traction on snow. But some parts of your vehicle that may need special attention for winter are your windshield wipers. You may have found yourself in the middle o... More
June 23, 2025
Few of us ever drive somewhere without encountering some pretty rough roads, and it's amazing how well our vehicles are able to smooth out the ride. Thank your shocks and struts. The two parts are similar. Some cars have shocks in the rear, and struts in the front. Others have struts all around... More
June 16, 2025
You've probably had your Check Engine Light go on. Then it goes off and you figure, hey, whatever the problem was, it's gone now and I don't have to worry about it. Well, the problem may have gone away and it may not have. Your vehicle likely has one of these warning lights on the instrument pa... More
