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The Jaguar brand is known for vehicles with smooth driving experience, but sometimes there are mechanical faults that hamper that experience. One of the mechanical issues that can affect how your Jaguar performs is a situation when differential failure occurs. This component plays a very important role because it makes sure that your wheels roll well, and when it malfunctions, you have to repair it quickly. Here is what you should know to diagnose and fix your Jaguar differential issues as a car owner.

What is a Differential?

A differential is an automobile component that is situated between the drive wheels of your car. In the rear-wheel-drive vehicles, it is installed in the rear axle housing, and in the front-wheel-drive vehicles, the differential is integrated into the transaxle. In All Wheel Drive and Four Wheel Drive vehicles, the differentials are found both in the front and in the rear axles and sometimes there is a center differential to control the power distribution between the front and the rear axles.

How Does Jaguar Differential Work?

The main role of a differential is to permit the wheels on the same axle to rotate at different rates while powering from the engine. This function is important especially when you want to turn or are approaching a corner. Whenever a car makes a turn, the wheels cover different distances with regard to the turn made. The outside wheels will have to travel a bigger circumference than the inside wheels. Without a differential, both wheels would have to turn at the same speed which would result in much wear on the tires, less efficient handling, and increased stress on the elements of the drivetrain.

What You Need to Do When You See These Symptoms

• Stop Driving: If you are certain that you have a severe differential issue, you should not drive your Jaguar any further. The problem will become worse if you continue driving and this may result in increased costs of repair.
• Inspect for Leaks: Start with the ground beneath your car. Check for any signs of fluid leaks. It is always important to determine the source of a puddle of fluid that may be on the ground. Differential fluid is generally darker in color than engine oil, and it has a different smell.
• Check the Fluid Level: If you feel confident with your ability, check the differential fluid level. If the level of fluid is low the differential can overheat and fail. While topping up the fluid might work as a short-term solution, you would need to seek the services of a mechanic to determine if there are underlying issues.
• Listen for Noises: One should also be keen to hear any strange sounds while driving. If you hear any squealing or groaning noise, your Jaguar should be taken to a mechanic as it may be a sign of a serious problem.

Consulting a Professional Mechanic

Fixing a differential is not a do-it-yourself project. A professional would be able to diagnose the problem well, eliminating the possibility of the problem being with some other part of the drivetrain as opposed to the suspected differential. Professional mechanics have all the essential tools for fixing or changing various kinds of differentials, which is why any attempt to fix it without the right tools will worsen the situation.

Repair or Replace

After the mechanic has narrowed down the problem, you will have to determine whether to fix the differential or get a new one. Some problems, for instance, the replacement of seal or bearing may be repairable. However, if the differential gears are worn out, then it will be cheaper to replace the entire unit. Refurbishing a differential is costly due to the parts and the labor that may be required.

Trust Autowerks for Your Jaguar’s Maintenance Needs

Our mechanics at Autowerks have been providing services for luxury European cars in College Station, TX, since 1975. Apart from College Station, our services extend to drivers from Brenham, Bryan, Caldwell, Madisonville, and Navasota cities in Texas. If your Jaguar no longer drives as smoothly as it should, then it is about time you take it to a mechanic for servicing.

When you bring your Jaguar to our garage, our technicians will ensure that the right tools and parts are applied, and your car is safe for use again. Need a car repair service for your Jaguar? Don’t waste time scheduling your appointment, contact us at 979-690-3032.