What is the construction and purpose of differentials?

Differentials are drivetrain components mounted on the drive axle or in the axle housing. They usually consist of a housing, final drive, spider gears, side gears, bearings, and seals. Their task is to distribute torque between the wheels of one axle and allow for a difference in rotational speed while turning.

What are differentials used for?

Differentials are used for smooth power transfer to the wheels while maintaining car stability in corners. Thanks to them, the inner and outer wheels of the drive axle can rotate at different speeds without jerking the drivetrain. Failure of this assembly can cause noise, overload the half-shafts, and impair vehicle handling.

What is the construction and function of differential bearings?

Differential bearing is a system of bearings supporting the pinion shaft and the differential carrier. It serves to maintain the proper position of gear elements, limit backlash, and ensure uniform gear operation. Its condition affects noise levels, gear durability, and the tightness of the entire assembly.

How to choose a differential for a specific car version?

When choosing, it is best to compare the OEM part number, interchangeable numbers, gear ratio, and vehicle placement. It is also worth checking the fuel type, body version, drive type, and compatibility with half-shafts and the driveshaft. If the car was available in several equipment variants, verification by VIN will also be helpful.

What symptoms may indicate differential wear?

Most commonly, these are whining or humming sounds that increase with speed, jerking when changing loads, and noticeable play in the drivetrain. Symptoms also include oil leaks from the housing and uneven operation during turns. Such signals should be compared with the condition of bearings, seals, and mounts.

What does the installation and maintenance of a differential look like?

Installation involves removing the driveshaft, disconnecting the half-shafts, replacing the assembly, and resetting all connections according to the manufacturer's documentation. After installation, check for leaks, mount condition, and the correct oil specified for the given design. In operation, regular checks for leaks, noise, and play appearing during driving are important.

Differentials - Differentials

Our offer includes original used differentials, commonly known as differentials, as well as remanufactured differentials from brands such as BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Volkswagen, Mini, and others. Thanks to our collaboration with experienced automotive consultants with over 10 years of experience, we can help you choose the right differential for your vehicle.

More information

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Audi Q7 4L 3.0 TDI Quattro Front Axle Differential Diff 0AA409508D WARRANTY

£161.95

Free delivery: Jul 14

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0AV525010K

Audi S3 8P VW Golf Mk5 R32 3.2 V6 Rear Axle Differential 0AV525010K WARRANTY

£474.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0CQ525010L

Audi S3 8V VW Golf R 2.0 TFSI Rear Axle Differential Diff 0CQ525010L WARRANTY

£759.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BR525010B

Audi TT 8J 2.0 TDI CFGB Quattro Rear Axle Differential MMK 0BR525010B WARRANTY

£408.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BC500043E

Audi S5 8T 3.0 TFSI CGWC Quattro Rear Differential 35:9 JKS 0BC500043E WARRANTY

£161.95

Free delivery: Jul 14

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BC500043A

Audi A5 8T 3.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff JKQ 0BC500043A WARRANTY

£170.95

Free delivery: Jul 14

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BD500043K

Audi Q5 8R 2.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential LLU 42:9 0BD500043K WARRANTY

£237.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BC500043R

Audi A7 4G 3.0 TDI Rear Axle Differential Diff LWV 0BC500043R WARRANTY

£284.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 02D525010AE

Audi TT 8N 1.8T BAM Quattro Rear Axle Differential 02D525010AE WARRANTY

£332.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0AY525010N

Audi Q3 2.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff 0AY525010N WARRANTY

£664.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BR525010

Audi TTS 8J 2.0 TFSI CDLB Quattro Rear Axle Differential KMC 0BR525010 WARRANTY

£379.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0AA409508T

Audi Q7 4L 4.2 TDI Quattro Front Axle Differential Diff 0AA409508T WARRANTY

£237.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BC500044-1

Audi A5 8T 2.0 TFSI Quattro Rear Differential 37:9 MNA 0BC500044 WARRANTY

£180.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0CQ525010K

Audi A3 S3 8V 2.0 TFSI Quattro Rear Axle Differential RUR 0CQ525010K WARRANTY

£1,044.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BC500044B

Audi A5 8T 2.0 TDI Quattro Rear Differential 48:13 MFS 0BC500044B WARRANTY

£313.95

Free delivery: Jul 14

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0AR500043T

Audi RS4 B7 4.2 BNS Rear Axle Differential Diff I=37:9 MPC 0AR500043T WARRANTY

£303.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0G2500043E

Audi A6 C8 A7 4K 3.0 TDI Rear Differential Diff 43:13 UEH 0G2500043E WARRANTY

£569.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0G2500043B

Audi Q7 4M 3.0 TDI Rear Axle Differential Ratio 43:13 RZP 0G2500043B WARRANTY

£284.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0AY525010F

Audi Q3 8U 2.0TFSI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Haldex PGA 0AY525010F WARRANTY

£617.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0AR500043B

Audi S8 D3 5.2 FSI Quattro Rear Differential 32:9 HNM 0AR500043B WARRANTY

£161.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 08E525010AB

Audi S3 8Y 2.0 TFSI DNFF Quattro Rear Axle Differential VPW 08E525010AB WARRANTY

£1,377.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 02M409053K

Audi S3 8L TT 8N 1.8T Quattro Transfer Box Case 02M409053K WARRANTY

£199.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0AR500043A

Audi A6 C6 4F 3.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential HNL 0AR500043A WARRANTY

£332.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 09R500043B

Audi A6 C8 3.0 TFSI Rear Axle Differential Diff I=44:10 RPZ 09R500043B WARRANTY

£588.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0D3500043

Audi S4 B9 S5 F5 SQ5 FY 3.0 Rear Axle Differential 43:13 QQS 0D3500043 WARRANTY

£427.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BF500044

Audi RS4 B8 4.2 FSI CFSA Quattro Rear Differential 35:8 MKW 0BF500044 WARRANTY

£1,187.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BR525010E

Audi S1 8X 2.0 TFSI CWZA Quattro Rear Axle Differential PFZ 0BR525010E WARRANTY

£503.95

Free delivery: Jul 14

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BR525010J

Audi S1 8X 2.0 TFSI CWZA Quattro Rear Axle Differential PQX 0BR525010J WARRANTY

£902.95

Free delivery: Jul 14

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BC500044

Audi A5 8T 2.0 TFSI Quattro Rear Differential 37:9 MNA 0BC500044 WARRANTY

£142.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0AB525017F

Audi Q7 4L 3.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff 0AB525017F WARRANTY

£189.95

Free delivery: Jul 14

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0D3500043-1

Audi S4 B9 S5 F5 3.0 Rear Axle Differential Diff 43:13 QQS 0D3500043 WARRANTY

£379.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BP525015H

Audi Q7 4L VW Touareg 3.0 TDI Rear Axle Differential MEX 0BP525015H WARRANTY

£142.95

Free delivery: Jul 14

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BC500043M

Audi A4 B8 3.2 FSI Quattro Rear Differential Diff 35:8 KLL 0BC500043M WARRANTY

£237.95

Free delivery: Jul 14

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BC500044D

Audi A8 4H 3.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff NPR 0BC500044D WARRANTY

£189.95

Free delivery: Jul 14

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BC500043

Audi A4 B8 2.0 TDI Quattro Rear Differential Diff 37:10 JKP 0BC500043 WARRANTY

£284.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0BE500043C-1

Audi A8 D4 4.2 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff MXX 0BE500043C WARRANTY

£1,614.95

Free delivery: Jul 15 – 22

If paid before 14:00

Part no. 0CQ525015

Audi A3 S3 8V 2.0 TFSI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff 0CQ525010F WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0CQ525010H

Audi S3 8V 2.0 TFSI CJXC Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff 0CQ525010H WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BR525010B-1

Audi TT 8J 2.0 TDI CFGB Quattro Rear Axle Differential MMK 0BR525010B WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0CQ525015B

Audi A3 S3 8V 2.0 TFSI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff 0CQ525015B WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0C1409505S

Front Axle Differential Audi Q7 4L Volkswagen Touareg 7L 0C1409505S WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BS525010C

Audi Q3 8U 2.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff 0BS525010C NVK WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0G2500043D

Audi A4 S4 B9 A5 S5 F5 3.0 Rear Axle Differential 43:13 SRP 0G2500043D WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BC500043N

Audi Q5 8R 2.0 TDI Quattro Rear Differential Diff 35:8 KLM 0BC500043N WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0AV525010M

Audi TT 8J 2.0 TDI CBBB Quattro Rear Axle Differential KJU 0AV525010M WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 01R500044A

Audi A4 B7 2.0 TFSI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff 01R525053 WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0CQ525010J

Audi S3 8V 2.0 TFSI Quattro Rear Axle Differential RUU 0CQ525010J WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BC500043J

Audi Q5 8R A5 8T A4 8K Rear Diff Differential Code KCC 43/13 0BC500043J WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BC500043Q

Audi Q5 8R 3.0 TDI Quattro Rear Differential Diff 42:9 LAW 0BC500043Q WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0CR525010C

Audi RS3 8V 2.5 TFSI CZGB Quattro Rear Differential QQH 0CR525010C WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BY525010B

Audi RS3 8P 2.5 TFSI Quattro Rear Axle Differential PYJ 0BY525010B WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0C1409506A

Front Axle Differential Audi Q7 4L Volkswagen Touareg 7L 0C1409506A WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 08V500043

Audi A4 B7 3.2 FSI Quattro Manual Rear Differential 35/8 HUN 08V500043 WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0CQ525010H-1

Audi S3 8V 2.0 TFSI CJXC Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff 0CQ525010H WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0CP409053A

Audi Q3 8U 2.0 TDI Quattro DSG Transfer Box Case 0CP409053A WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BR525010C-1

Audi TT 8J Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff Haldex SDP 0BR525010C WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0B0500043K

Audi Q5 FY 80A DAXB Quattro Rear Axle Differential 53:10 TJN 0B0500043K WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0CQ525010T

Audi Q3 F3 2.0 TDI CTUA Quattro Rear Axle Differential UFZ 0CQ525010T WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BR525554

Audi TT 8J Quattro Rear Axle Differential Coupling Filter MMK 0BR525554 2.0 TDI

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BF500043R

Audi S5 8T 4.2 FSI Quattro Rear Differential Diff 43:13 MKV 0BF500043R WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0AR500043C

Audi A6 C6 3.0 TDI Rear Axle Differential Diff HNN 0AR500043C WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BC500044A

Audi A7 4G 3.0 TDI Quattro Rear Differential Diff 37:9 MNB 0BC500044A WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 08E525010M

Audi RS3 8Y 2.5 TFSI DNWC Quattro Rear Axle Differential UYA 08E525010M WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 09R500043C

Audi A6 C8 2.0TFSIe Rear Axle Differential Diff I= 44:10 RQA 09R500043C WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BF500043T

Audi S6 C7 4.0 TFSI Quattro Rear Differential Diff 37:9 MKU 0BF500043T WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0AA409508D-1

Audi Q7 4L 3.0 TDI Quattro Front Axle Differential Diff 0AA409508D WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 02M409053Q

Audi S3 8L TT 8N 1.8T Quattro Transfer Box Case 02M409053Q WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0B0500043N

Audi Q5 FY 40 TDI Rear Differential Diff Ratio 53:10 TJR 0B0500043N WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0DB505200A

Audi A4 B9 Rear Axle Differential Balance Weight 0DB505200A

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0DB500043G

Audi A4 B9 2.0 TDI DETA Quattro Rear Differential 47:11 RZV 0DB500043G WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0AZ409505A

Audi R8 42 4.2 FSI Quattro Front Axle Differential Diff 0AZ409505A WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 02M409053AT

Audi A3 8P TT 8J Quattro Transfer Box Case HXZ 02M409053AT WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BF500043Q

Audi S4 B8 S5 8T 3.0 TFSI Quattro Rear Differential 35:9 0BF500043Q WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0AV525010L

Audi A3 8P 2.0 TDI BMN Quattro Rear Axle Differential KJT 0AV525010L WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0AY525010N-1

Audi Q3 8U 2.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Haldex QLY 0AY525010N WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0AV525010C

Audi A3 8P VW Golf Mk5 2.0 TDI Rear Axle Differential 0AV525010C WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0AB525017L

Audi Q7 4L 4.2 TDI Rear Axle Differential Diff 0AB525017L WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BR525010S

Audi Q2 GA 2.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff UPY 0BR525010S WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BP525015P

Audi Q7 4L 3.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential RCJ 0BP525015N WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0CQ525010D

Audi S3 8V 2.0 TFSI CJXC Quattro Rear Axle Differential PHF 0CQ525010D WARRANTY

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Part no. 0CQ525010R

Audi S3 8Y 2.0 TFSI DNFB Quattro Rear Axle Differential TUJ 0CQ525010R WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0BC500043J-1

Audi Q5 8R A5 8T A4 8K Rear Diff Differential Code KCC 43/13 0BC500043J WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0CR525010S

Audi RS3 RSQ3 2.5 TFSI Quattro Rear Differential Diff 0CR525010S WARRANTY

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Part no. 0BC500043A-1

Audi A5 8T 3.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff JKQ 0BC500043A WARRANTY

Product currently unavailable

Part no. 0D2500043J

Audi Q5 FY 3.0 TFSI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff TJS 0D2500043J WARRANTY

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Part no. 0BR525010B-2

Audi TT 8J Rear Axle Differential Part MMK Quattro 2.0 TDI CFGB 0BR525010B

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Part no. 0AR525053A

Audi A5 8T A6 C6 Rear Axle Differential Diff HNP 0AR525083 WARRANTY

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Part no. 0BR525010B-3

Audi TT 8J Rear Axle Differential Part MMK Quattro 2.0 TDI CFGB 02D525230D

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Part no. 0AA409508D-2

Audi Q7 4L Quattro Front Axle Differential Diff Flange Shaft 3.0 TDI 0AA409508D

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Part no. 0BD500043K-1

Audi Q5 8R 2.0 TDI Quattro Rear Axle Differential LLU 42:9 0BD500043K WARRANTY

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Part no. 0CQ525010AB

VW T-Roc A11 R 2.0 TSI Quattro Rear Axle Differential Diff 0CQ525010AB WARRANTY

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Showing 1-91 of 91 products

Car differentials for precise power distribution

Precision differentials for optimal drive distribution

Have you ever wondered what makes your car corner smoothly and handle road bumps effectively? This is due to the differential – a key component of your car's drivetrain. Without this differential gear, traveling would be significantly less comfortable and safe. A functional differential ensures that each wheel rotates at the appropriate speed, adjusted to road conditions and maneuvers performed by the driver. A malfunctioning or damaged differential can lead to many problems – from difficulty in steering to serious failures of other drivetrain parts. Symptoms of a faulty differential may include noise coming from the axle area, difficulty when turning, and uneven tire wear, which is why it is worth paying attention to regular technical inspections of your car and taking care of the condition of all its components. In our Global Parts automotive store with spare parts, you will find a wide selection of high-quality used differentials that are not only durable but also available at attractive prices. You can easily order them online and add selected car differentials to your cart. Taking care of the good condition of the differential is an investment in the comfort and safety of every journey, as well as the longevity of other components of your vehicle. Regular maintenance of this mechanism guarantees smooth driving regardless of road conditions or the type of equipment used. A car differential is a mechanism whose main task is to distribute torque between the wheels of the drive axle, allowing them to rotate at different speeds in corners. In passenger vehicles, open differentials, LSD (Limited Slip Differential), and electronic E-Diffs are most commonly used. For example, a BMW X3 E83 differential ensures precise torque transfer to the rear wheels, which improves traction on slippery surfaces. In practice, a typical rear differential for a BMW E46 318i has a gear ratio of 3.91:1 and a weight of approximately 35 kg, which allows it to work effectively with the driveshaft and half-shafts. Compatibility of differentials with a specific VIN guarantees full interchangeability and fitment with the rest of the drivetrain. This saves installation costs and minimizes the risk of improper vehicle operation.

Construction and purpose of differentials

Differentials are drivetrain assemblies mounted on the drive axle or in the axle housing, designed to distribute torque between the left and right wheels. A typical unit consists of a housing, ring gear, pinion shaft, spider gears, bearings, and seals. In product listings, it is worth checking data such as the OEM part number, interchangeable numbers, vehicle placement, and fuel type, as these affect compatibility with a specific car version.

Comparison of car differential variants

Variant	Operating characteristics	Elements to check before purchase	Application
Open differential	Standardly distributes torque to the wheels and allows them to rotate at different speeds in a turn.	OEM number, gear ratio, mounting type, compatibility with half-shafts and driveshaft.	Most common in road cars.
LSD differential	Limits excessive wheel slip and improves power transfer in poor traction conditions.	Type of locking mechanism, gear ratio, housing, compatibility with the drive axle.	Sport versions, higher-performance variants, and dynamically used cars.
Electronic E-Diff	Works in conjunction with the vehicle's electronics and stability control system.	Control compatibility, equipment version, cooperating sensors, OEM number.	Modern drivetrains with advanced electronics.

Table of example BMW differentials

Model	Type	Ratio	Weight
BMW E46 318i	Rear differential	3.91:1	35
BMW X3 E83	Rear differential	3.91:1	38
BMW 320d E90	Rear differential	3.91:1	36

Differentials - Original spare parts from well-known automotive manufacturers

In our offer, you will find original used differentials, as well as differentials refurbished by our company for brands such as BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Ford, Volkswagen, or Mini. Thanks to our cooperation with experienced automotive advisors with over 10 years of experience, we will help you choose the right differential for your car. Our specialists provide professional advice and support at every stage of purchasing a differential. By using our services, you can be sure that you are choosing the best differentials available on the market. All our differentials are carefully selected and tested for durability and performance. This way, you can be sure that your vehicle will operate flawlessly for many years. Thanks to the wide assortment of products in the Global Parts automotive store, we offer differentials suitable for many passenger car models. We place great emphasis on the quality of our products and ensure that every customer finds something for themselves in our store. We stock differentials with various technical parameters and prices adapted to individual user needs. You can easily browse our offer online and add selected differentials to your cart without leaving your home. Reliable drivetrain operation is crucial for driving safety and travel comfort. That is why it is worth investing in original used parts from renowned manufacturers and distributors such as Global Parts. Thanks to them, your car will always be ready for any route – regardless of road conditions or surface type. If you are not sure which differential best fits your car or have questions regarding installation – our experts are always ready to help. Simply contact us by phone or email; we will be happy to provide all information and advise you on choosing the right spare parts. Investing in original components from proven manufacturers is a guarantee of reliability and longevity for your vehicle. By taking care of your car's condition through regular replacement of worn parts, you will ensure a smooth ride without unexpected breakdowns or technical problems. In addition to standard differentials, our offer also includes BMW LSD limited-slip differentials, which increase traction on surfaces with varying friction coefficients. Thanks to OEM numbers, you can precisely match the differential to the specific model and year of the car.

The importance of gear ratios and cooperating elements

The differential gear ratio is used to match the drivetrain characteristics to the engine, gearbox, and wheel diameter. It influences how torque is delivered, the car's acceleration response, and RPMs while driving at a constant speed. When choosing, it is worth comparing not only the OEM number but also the housing, mounting points, and compatibility with differential bearings and seals.

Choosing a differential for the car version and drive type

The differential is designed to work with the driveshaft, half-shafts, and hubs, so its selection should take into account the engine version, fuel type, and mounting location. For parts such as a BMW E90 320i differential, you must compare the gear ratio, OEM number, and rear housing mounting method to avoid fitment issues. Additionally, it is helpful to compare the offer with differential repair kits and other differential parts if a more extensive repair is planned.

Practical tips for replacement and condition assessment

Differential bearing is the support system for the pinion shaft and the differential carrier, which is responsible for the smooth and quiet operation of the entire assembly. Worn bearings, backlash in the gearing, or leaking seals can cause whining, vibrations, and oil leaks. When choosing an element such as a Mercedes W211 rear axle, it is worth checking the condition of the mounts, housing tightness, and compatibility with half-shafts, while if you are looking for a component such as an E46 differential, it is good to compare the OEM part number, gear ratio, and body style. A useful supplement to the selection process is the article Drive axles and differentials from dismantling – how to choose gear ratios for driving style.

Differential installation procedure includes

Lifting the vehicle and removing the driveshaft.
Unscrewing and removing the old differential.
Installing the new differential while maintaining the manufacturer's tightening torques.
Changing the oil in the differential.
Test drive to verify correct operation.

FAQ

Question	Answer
What is the construction and purpose of differentials?	Differentials are drivetrain components mounted on the drive axle or in the axle housing. They usually consist of a housing, final drive, spider gears, side gears, bearings, and seals. Their task is to distribute torque between the wheels of one axle and allow for a difference in rotational speed while turning.
What are differentials used for?	Differentials are used for smooth power transfer to the wheels while maintaining car stability in corners. Thanks to them, the inner and outer wheels of the drive axle can rotate at different speeds without jerking the drivetrain. Failure of this assembly can cause noise, overload the half-shafts, and impair vehicle handling.
What is the construction and function of differential bearings?	Differential bearing is a system of bearings supporting the pinion shaft and the differential carrier. It serves to maintain the proper position of gear elements, limit backlash, and ensure uniform gear operation. Its condition affects noise levels, gear durability, and the tightness of the entire assembly.
How to choose a differential for a specific car version?	When choosing, it is best to compare the OEM part number, interchangeable numbers, gear ratio, and vehicle placement. It is also worth checking the fuel type, body version, drive type, and compatibility with half-shafts and the driveshaft. If the car was available in several equipment variants, verification by VIN will also be helpful.
What symptoms may indicate differential wear?	Most commonly, these are whining or humming sounds that increase with speed, jerking when changing loads, and noticeable play in the drivetrain. Symptoms also include oil leaks from the housing and uneven operation during turns. Such signals should be compared with the condition of bearings, seals, and mounts.
What does the installation and maintenance of a differential look like?	Installation involves removing the driveshaft, disconnecting the half-shafts, replacing the assembly, and resetting all connections according to the manufacturer's documentation. After installation, check for leaks, mount condition, and the correct oil specified for the given design. In operation, regular checks for leaks, noise, and play appearing during driving are important.

Summary: differentials at the Global Parts automotive store

Differentials are crucial for the operation of the entire drivetrain, so when purchasing, it is worth paying attention to the OEM part number, interchangeable numbers, vehicle placement, and compatibility with the car version. The Global Parts offer includes used and refurbished elements for many models, including for brands such as BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and others. This makes it easier to select the right differential for a planned repair or replacement of the entire assembly. We invite you to contact us – we are here to help you! For more information and interesting facts, we also invite you to visit our automotive blog.

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