Rear Differential Repair Cost

A car differential is a fairly simple device, but it is made with high levels of precision to increase efficiency and longevity. There are a few things that can indicate your differential needs repairing. In this article, we’ll discuss those along with how much it might cost.

How much does it cost to repair a differential?

Repairing or replacing a differential can cost between £150 and £1,800, depending on the type and cause of the problem.

If your differential is leaking, expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £350 for a garage to replace the seals.

If you need an entirely new differential, dealer parts prices can mean many thousands of pounds, but you might be able to find a used or reconditioned one cheaper.

Whatever the fault, Bumper's car repair finance can help with car repair bills. Check out where your nearest participating garage on online.

What does a car’s differential do?

A differential allows your car's driven wheels to spin at slightly different speeds when rounding a corner, and both still transmit power. This is needed because the wheel on the outer side of the car has to spin faster and travel further than the one on the inside.

All cars, apart from very early ones, have differentials; 4-wheel drive cars have one on each axle, and one in the centre too. Without it, it would be very difficult to turn and especially to manoeuvre, such as when parking.

Do all cars have a differential?

Yes, every modern car uses a differential; without it, turning would be very difficult, and the car would be nowhere near as manoeuvrable.

However, as most cars in the UK are front wheel drive, the differential is built into the gearbox, and so doesn’t have its own casing, oil level or seals. Differentials on Front Wheel Drive cars can still have issues, but they are less likely.

What can go wrong with a differential?

In general, differentials are pretty robust things, and as long as their oil is changed regularly, they will work without issue for many years. Issues generally crop up when either oil changes are ignored or seals become perished with age.

The latter can then result in the oil leaking from the body of the differential, eventually causing it to run out. Like any mechanical device, it needs lubrication to function without accelerated wear.

Can I drive with a broken differential?

No, it is not advisable to drive with a broken differential. For starters, any issues that are present will only continue to get worse, potentially turning a cheap repair job into an expensive replacement.

Further to that, should anything go catastrophically wrong inside the differential, such as a bearing collapsing or a gear shearing, you may either lose drive or find the rear wheels suddenly lock up. Neither situation is safe!

Repair your car with Bumper

Whether your car needs a new differential, gearbox, exhaust or bodywork repair, Bumper can help spread those large bills into manageable monthly payments with interest-free car repair loans.

Author - Joseph Law

Joseph has been writing about cars for over eight years and writing for Bumper for over three, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.