In order to make the most of your vehicle investment, you need to understand a few things about your car. According to the EPA, regular vehicle maintenance will help to increase your fuel efficiency by up to 15%. Educating yourself on the different parts of a vehicle and how they work can really benefit you when it’s time to get repairs done. The differential is an important part of the vehicle that is helpful to understand. It is the aspect of the vehicle that allows the wheels mounted on the same axle to rotate independently of each other. Let's look at the two most common types of differentials that you'll see on vehicles.

Open Differential

This is considered to be the most basic type of differential. It comprises two halves of an axle with a gear included on each end. This is connected by a third gear which makes up three sides of a square. This type is usually supplemented by a fourth which gives added strength and completes the square. As a basic unit, it’s further augmented by a ring gear which is added to the differential case. This holds the basic core gears and it allows the wheels to receive power. This is done by connecting to the drive shaft via a pinion.

Locked Differential

Another type would be the locked differential. The lock, also known as the locking differential, is a variant that you can find on some vehicles that are primarily used for off-roading vehicles. Essentially this is an open differential that also has the ability to be locked in place. This creates a fixed axle instead of an independent one. The differential can be locked manually or electronically, but it depends on the type of technology that’s been used in the vehicle.

The benefit of this type is that it’s able to gain a considerable amount of traction. This can be helpful in off-road situations.

These are just two types of differentials available. If you want to learn more about your vehicle, or if you're in need of differential and axle products, please contact our team at Richmond Transmission & Auto Service today. We are here for your automotive needs and are happy to answer any questions you may have.