Your Ram truck is a high-performance machine that needs regular maintenance for optimal performance. Since your truck likely has an AWD system, you will need to schedule routine differential service at your local Ram dealer to ensure your truck’s axle and suspension system are in good condition.
The Importance of Regular Differential Service for Your Ram Truck
A vehicle’s differential is essentially the system that allows the wheels on each axle to turn independently at different speeds. The differential plays a crucial role in providing your truck with stability when you are turning a corner. When you turn the steering wheel, your differential system responds by spinning the outside wheel further than the inside wheel. Neglecting your differential can make handling your truck difficult.
How Often Should You Visit Your Ram Dealer for Service?
The most common part of your differential that needs routine service is the differential fluid. The differential fluid is a special lubricant that reduces friction and heat on the differential gears and ensures your differential can move freely in response to steering wheel commands. It’s a good idea to have your differential fluid replaced every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on how often you drive your truck.
Signs of a Failing Differential System
A drastic change in how well your vehicle handles turns might be the first sign that your differential system is in trouble. A differential that is out of alignment or running on old differential fluid may not perform turns well or may even make it harder to control the steering wheel on the road. Sometimes, you may even notice unusual vibrations on the road, particularly when you are executing a turn.
Your tire tread wear can also be another indicator of a failing differential system. If your tires are wearing thin on the outside edge or the sidewalls, this could be because a misaligned differential system is placing too much pressure on this area of the tire. Uneven tire tread wear can also indicate other urgent problems, such as a worn-down suspension system or uneven wheel alignment.
What Happens During Service?
During service for your differential system, a mechanic will remove the old differential fluid from your vehicle and flush any remaining fluid out of the system before new differential fluid is added. A mechanic will also inspect various differential components to look for signs of damage, particularly on the areas where the differential connects to the drive shaft.
Your truck’s differential is the reason you can handle turning tight corners so effortlessly. However, routine service to replace fluid and inspect for damage is essential to maintain vehicle performance. Visit Charbonneau Chrysler Center in Dickinson, ND for service today.
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