Differentials have been around much longer than cars and trucks. Some believe that they have been in use for over 2,000 years. Wheeled carts, wagons, and chariots using solid axles. Had significant performance issues maneuvering corners. Damage was caused to the wheels, axles, and roads. The introduction of differentials was born of necessity. It allowed the wheels on a single axle to rotate at different speeds from each other. An ah-ha moment that we can’t do without today.

The name differential comes from the root word different. Different speeds or rotation rates need for left and right wheels. In rear or front-wheel drive vehicles, one differential is required. In four or all-wheel drive vehicles two differentials are needed.

Today there a four different types of differential commonly used in vehicles. The open differential is the basic version. Next up is the limited-slip differential. It adds the ability to control power distribution. This diff can identify excessive wheelspin and compensate for it.
The locking differential is popular on off-road vehicles and performance cars. It acts to simulate having a fixed axle for power delivery. Lastly, we have the torque-vectoring differential. It is also called the active differential. It is the most complex and expensive. Found in some high-end rear-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles.

At Dean & Daughters’ Repair Shop in Estevan SK. We are differential specialists. No matter what type of differential your vehicle has, we can fix or replace it. Call us today at (306) 634-6114