Differential & Drivetrain Service

Your drivetrain carries power from the transmission to the wheels. Depending on the vehicle, that includes the driveshaft, U-joints, CV axles, and one or more differentials. Four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles also have a transfer case. Each of these parts can need its own fluid and service schedule.

What we work on

• Front and rear differential fluid service
• Differential inspection and repair
• Differential re-gearing
• CV axle and CV boot replacement
• Driveshaft and U-joint service
• Transfer case fluid service on 4WD and AWD vehicles

Signs your drivetrain needs attention

• A whining or howling noise that gets louder as you speed up
• Clicking or popping when you turn
• Vibration that changes with speed
• Grease on the inside of a wheel or tire, which can mean a torn CV boot
• Fluid leaks or a burning smell near the differential

How often should differential fluid be changed?

It depends on the vehicle. Many manufacturers list an interval somewhere around 30,000 to 60,000 miles, and towing, hauling, off-road driving or a lot of stop-and-go driving can shorten it. Your owner's manual lists the interval for your vehicle. Fluid that looks dark or metallic, or smells burnt, is a sign the service is overdue.

4-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles

A 4WD or AWD vehicle may have a front differential, a rear differential and a transfer case, and each one can take a different fluid. We follow the specifications for your vehicle so each one gets the right fluid.

Hearing a new noise or feeling a vibration? Contact Ethan's Honest Automotive and we'll take a look.