Differential Guide: Types, Fluid Changes, Limited Slip & Repair Costs
Open, limited-slip, and locking differentials - fluid, repair costs, and ring & pinion.
Topics
Explore Differential by Topic
1393 articles across 6 sub-topics in Differential.
Fluid & Service
Differential fluid, rear differential fluid, and change intervals.
Types (LSD/Open/Locker)
Limited slip, open, Detroit locker, and Torsen differentials compared.
Repair & Cost
Fixing a rear differential, replacement cost, and rear-end rebuilds.
Front & Rear
Rear differential, front differential, and axle differential service.
Locker & Traction
Locking differential, ARB locker, Eaton locker, and welded diffs.
Ring & Pinion
Ring and pinion, gear sets, spider gears, and side gears.
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About the Differential Hub
Differential fluid changes, LSD/open/locker types, front and rear diffs, repair costs, and ring & pinion gearing.
Key areas include: fluid & service, types (lsd/open/locker), repair & cost, front & rear, locker & traction, ring & pinion. Select any topic above to browse dedicated, in-depth articles - from cost guides and symptom diagnosis to step-by-step repair and rebuild walkthroughs.
Representative searches: differential fluid, limited slip differential, rear differential, ring and pinion
FAQ
Differential - Common Questions
How often should I change differential fluid?
Most manufacturers recommend changing differential fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Vehicles used for towing, hauling, or off-road driving should follow the severe-service interval, which is roughly half that distance.
What is the difference between open and limited-slip differentials?
An open differential lets the wheels spin at different speeds but sends power to the wheel with the least traction, so one slipping wheel can stall progress. A limited-slip differential (LSD) redirects torque to the wheel with more grip to maintain traction.
How much does differential repair cost?
Differential repair ranges from about $200 for a fluid change to $1,500 to $4,000 for a full rear-axle rebuild or replacement. Front differentials and limited-slip units typically cost more due to added complexity.