Service Your Car
Drivetrain Service
MAKE AN APPOINTMENTHow Does The Drivetrain Work?
Drivetrains work differently depending on their orientation. The most common orientations are two-wheel and four-wheel drivetrains:
- Rear-Wheel Drivetrain: In this arrangement, the engine's power is delivered to the car's rear wheels. This is the most common orientation used today on both cars and larger vehicles. It stands out due to its ability to deliver weight more equitably across tires, a big plus for steering and handling. Braking is also delivered more efficiently in this arrangement.
In this configuration, the transmission carries the engines speed and connects it to a drive shaft. The drive shaft is a spinning tube which connects the transmission to the differential. The differential sits between the two rear wheels. Its name comes from its function - it allows the wheels to spin at different speeds, which is particularly important when cornering. It also converts the direction of torque from the shaft before it gets into the tires.
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Front-Wheel Drivetrain: While rear-wheel cars are pushed by its back wheels, front-drive cars are pulled by front ones. Instead of transferring power through the long drive shaft, torque from the engine is readily supplied to the front wheels. Fitting all the drivetrain components at the front of the car means engine orientation is also different in front wheel cars.
Front-wheel cars have components similar to those in rear wheel cars. However, instead of a transmission, these cars have transaxles(which combine transmission and axle functions). The long drive shaft is also replaced with a half-shaft, a shorter version which performs the role of torque transfer to the wheels.
The Importance Of Drivetrain Maintenance
Like many other parts of the car, the drivetrain requires fluid to function optimally. Automobile manufacturers recommend checking this fluid every 15,000 miles. Replacement of this fluid and its accompanying filter should occur at about 70,000 to 100,000 miles. Differential fluid should also be checked at about the same mileage.
If your car has difficulty shifting gears, has a noisy transmission or emits a burning smell, that is an indication of a faulty transmission. Pops or clicks coming from the front wheels point towards worn joints.
A fairly common issue with the drivetrain system is transmission fluid leaks. It is important to have your car checked immediately you notice any fluid leak underneath your car. This will prevent more serious damage and costly repairs.
At Guaranteed Motor Cars in Palos Hills, IL we provide excellent drivetrain services for both automatic and manual transmissions in 2WD, 4WD, and AWD automobiles:
- Drivetrain Inspection (Check Front/Rear Differential, Drive Shafts, Transfer Case, CV Joints and Boots, Gaskets and Seals)
- Driveline Seals Inspection for Leaks
- Lubricating Fluid Inspection & Replacement
- Additional Free Services:
- Multipoint Visual Inspection
- Interior and Exterior Lamp Inspection
- Road Test
Our highly trained team of car service technicians will bring years of experience in servicing car drivetrains to your vehicle. Contact us to schedule an appointment today and let us impress you with our quick, efficient, and affordable drivetrain services.
