What Do Front and Rear Differentials Do?

Volkswagen vehicles are loaded with many advanced features. It’s not uncommon to see their features and wonder, “What do front and rear differentials do?” North Penn Volkswagen shares what they are and how they benefit your vehicle.

What’s a Differential?

As you’re driving, your wheels are powered by your drivetrain. However, when you turn, your outside wheels must travel farther than the inside wheels, so they have to spin faster. The differential is what allows your wheels to rotate at different speeds. If your parts were locked, you wouldn’t be able to maneuver around corners.

What Is a Front Differential?

A front differential is typically an open differential, which distributes torque equally to both wheels under normal driving conditions while allowing them to rotate at different speeds. It’s part of your transaxle and takes torque from your transmission to distribute it to your front wheels. All front-wheel drive vehicles have a front differential, as well as some all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicles.

In addition to improving your maneuverability, it also helps to balance power, as well as improve your steering and traction.

What’s a Rear Differential?

A rear differential, on the other hand, is found in vehicles with rear wheel drive. It can also be found in some all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models.

A rear wheel differential is unique because it is separated from the transmission. Instead, it’s connected by a drive shaft. It allows your rear wheels to move at different speeds, which also improves your maneuverability and cornering.

Explore Our Volkswagen Inventory in Colmar, PA

Many Volkswagen models have front and rear differentials. We encourage you to test drive our models and see the difference in driving a Volkswagen car or SUV. Visit North Penn Volkswagen to take one for a spin today!