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The differential carrier is a component inside the differential assembly of a vehicle's drivetrain that allows the wheels on the axle to rotate at different speeds through turns. Differentials are commonly found on vehicles with multiple driven wheels, such as rear-wheel-drive (RWD), all-wheel-drive (AWD), or four-wheel-drive (4WD) systems. When power is supplied from the engine and transmission to the pinion gear and the ring gear, this turns the gears housed inside the differential. These carrier gears, also known as spider gears, then distribute power to the wheels at either side of the vehicle. When turning, the inside wheel will rotate less than the outside, and the gears inside the differential carrier allow for independent control of wheel speed and power transmission. Differential carriers are lubricated by gear oil inside the axle assembly, which prevents them from experiencing excessive friction or overheating to limit the risk of damage or premature wear. If your differential seems locked or you notice that the rear of your vehicle hops around corners, there might be an issue with the differential carrier. Low oil levels can also cause wear on the differential gears, and can result in a whining or howling noise while driving. If you notice these symptoms, it may be a good idea to check your gear oil level and condition as well as inspect the gears of the differential for signs of damage. You can learn more about how to change differential gear oil in our How-To Hub. Some differentials will require a limited-slip additive in addition to fresh gear oil, so be certain you know the requirements for your vehicle before performing this service. Failure to use the appropriate additive can also lead to premature differential carrier gear wear and poor performance. For your next differential rebuild, shop O'Reilly Auto Parts for replacement differential carriers, gear oil, ring and pinion sets, differential additives, and other drivetrain components for a complete repair.
