When the differential fluid is being changed, the different gasket replacement is included in the regular maintenance. Let’s find out what it is and why it is needed.
What is a Differential Gasket?
The front differential is an important component of a vehicle. It converts the power from the transmission to the horizontal axis and ensures that the tyres of your car spin at different speeds. Like a lot of other car components, the front differential requires lubrication which is provided by a differential oil.
And to make sure this oil doesn’t come out of the differential; it is sealed with either silicone or a differential gasket. The differential fluid can be contaminated by debris and metal shavings. If the fluid leaks or the gasket breaks, it would need to be replaced.
Why is Differential Gasket Replacement Required?
If the gasket breaks or wears out, the differential oil can leak. The fluid leak of a significant quantity can damage your car’s differential and also make it impossible for you to operate the vehicle. While differential oil leaks in smaller quantities wouldn’t affect the operation of your car immediately, you will eventually need to refill the oil and replace the differential gasket. It’s better to do it as soon as you see any of the following symptoms.
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When is it Time to Replace the Differential Gasket?
Ideally, you should change the differential oil every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. And when the oil is changed, the gasket is also replaced. However, sometimes you might need to do it sooner. The common symptoms that indicate the need for differential gasket replacement are:
If you notice traces of oil on the underside of the vehicle, it is advisable to get the differential checked by an expert mechanic as it might be the first indication of the gasket breaking or wearing out. Alternatively, if you see drips or puddles of fluid under the motor compartment of your car, it can be the differential oil leaking. Another symptom of a broken or failed gasket is the grinding or whining noise that comes from the front of your car engine.
How is it done?
If you notice the differential oil leaking, take your car to a mechanic and get the oil changed and gasket replaced. It can be done in the following manner.
- The mechanic will put the vehicle on jacks and remove all four wheels.
- Place a drain pan under the front and rear differential to drain out the remaining oil
- Remove the defective front and rear differential gaskets and replace them with new gaskets
- Fill the front and rear differential with new differential oil
- Reinstall the wheels
- Remove the car from the jacks
- Road test the car
Wrapping up
The differential gasket will generally be replaced every time the differential oil is changed. However, if there’s a fluid leak before the routine oil change, you should take your car to a mechanic for differential gasket replacement. You can find a qualified mechanic on Swezo by simply posting a request.