Lee Myles Auto Care - Birdsboro-Exeter
6714 Perkiomen Ave, Birdsboro, PA 19508 | 610-404-4227

Simple Answers from Lee Myles Auto Care - Birdsboro-Exeter for Birdsboro: Differential Service

Last Updated: Jul 01, 2025

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

Lee Myles Auto Care - Birdsboro-Exeter 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). Birdsboro 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 Birdsboro, 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 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 Birdsboro drivers. Rather than the simple mechanical devices of yesteryear, they are more complicated and may actually be part of the computer controlled vehicle stability system. This means they are more taxed, so it pays for Birdsboro drivers to have them serviced on schedule at Lee Myles Auto Care - Birdsboro-Exeter in Birdsboro to avoid premature wear. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Lee Myles Auto Care - Birdsboro-Exeter.

Give us a call.

Lee Myles Auto Care - Birdsboro-Exeter
6714 Perkiomen Ave
Birdsboro, PA 19508
610-404-4227
LeeMyles422.com

At Lee Myles Auto Care - Birdsboro-Exeter we install quality NAPA replacement parts.