Differential Hello everyone, got a genral knowleadge car question i'm hoping one of you fine people could answer for me. It deals witha car's differential. I understand what it does, but what are signs that there is a problem with the differential. What can cause the differential to go bad. Wear and tear? Driver abuse? Neglect? Any answer would be much appreciated!
Cars & Trucks - Toyota - Corolla - 2005 Toyota Corolla
Answers & Comments
I checked for any service bulletins from toyota and
found none related to the differential. Any of the
conditions you've mentioned could cause eventual
failure. Some of the warning signs are a whining or
growling noise that gets louder with time, or a slight
vibration while driving that get's worse. Also a clunking noise when you accelerate from a stop or
shifting from drive to reverse. Most differentials have
a magnet in the bottom of the housing, to catch any
metel shrapnal that may chip off the gears.
But if a big enough piece gets free and lands between
a couple of gears, it can cause instant major damage
The only way to be sure is to pull the cover and see
whats what. I hope this helps answer your question.
Most anything can ruin a differential. usually I can tell once it is apart