Differential Service

What Is Included in a Differential Service?

This service targets the suspension system in the car. Depending on the Kia, the differential can be on the front axle, the rear axle or both. The differential is what allows the wheels to turn without undue stress. If you think about an old horse-drawn buggy or chariot, there are no steering wheels. If a turn is taken sharply, it can tip over. That’s because the wheels create tension against each other during a turn. The differential removes this tension, and it’s the key reason why your car can corner better than those older modes of transportation.

The differential service checks the fluid and the system. You’ll get the level and quality of the fluid inspected to make sure everything is working normally. Differential service is standard preventative maintenance.

How Often Do I Need It?

Your owner’s manual will have a recommended schedule for differential service. It varies by model, but typically, you’re looking at having an inspection every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. The differential is a powerful part of the car, and most vehicles go their entire life span without replacement. But, that is contingent on having proper, non-degraded fluid levels throughout.

If oil problems are missed, the whole system can break down. Failing to schedule differential service puts you at risk for this, and if the system breaks, it can be incredibly difficult to steer and control the vehicle. Leaving this service is potentially dangerous, and replacing a blown differential is very expensive.