Gene Fink's Pennzoil, Inc.
54 Freeport Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15215 412.781.9952

Simple Answers from Gene Fink's Pennzoil, Inc. for Pittsburgh: Differential Service

Last Updated: May 04, 2021

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

Gene Fink's Pennzoil, Inc. 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). Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh, 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 Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh drivers to have them serviced on schedule at Gene Fink's Pennzoil, Inc. in Pittsburgh to avoid premature wear. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Gene Fink's Pennzoil, Inc..

Give us a call.

Gene Fink's Pennzoil, Inc.
54 Freeport Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15215
412.781.9952

At Gene Fink's Pennzoil, Inc. we install quality NAPA replacement parts.