How To Deal With Differential Failure In Your Jaguar
by schearerswpadmin November 18, 2021Jaguars are arguably one of the most sought after car brands on earth. This may be due to the fact that it offers such tight handling, maximum power, excellent performance, and luxurious comfort. However, this doesn’t make these cars automatically immune to the typical problems that affect other car types.
One of the typical issues that Jaguars develop is problems with the rear differential. A differential is a component of every vehicle’s suspension system. It controls the movement and shifting of wheels while turning to counterbalance the disparity between the inner and outer wheels. Let’s explore differential failure in a Jaguar further and find out how to deal with this problem.
What does the differential do?
The regulation of wheel movement when cornering is the main purpose of the rear differential. Almost all Jaguars, exempting the recent models, have been designed to use an independent rear suspension that features a limited-slip differential. Due to the fact that the differentials are constantly working to regulate movement, they need proper maintenance in the form of lubrication to stay in good working condition. This may also help increase their lifespan and improve their performance.
As mentioned, there are several types of differentials. Jaguars commonly use two types, limited-slip differential or torque-vectoring differential. Knowing the difference and having a foundational understanding of this may come in handy when looking for warning signs and finding solutions to differential failure.
Limited-Slip Differentials: This is a standard, open differential which transmits power from the engine to the rear wheel.
Torque-Vectoring Differentials: Many of the recent models called “F-type Jaguars” feature this type of differential. This uses computerized clutches to control rear wheel rotation rather than the mechanical dynamic of the limited-slip differentials.
Causes of Differential Failure and How to Deal with it
You will most likely notice when things go wrong in your Jaguar due to the abrupt decline in performance generally, the car may also give off loud whining noises while you’re driving. The causes of differential failure may depend on the age and model of your car and warning signs may vary depending on the differential that your car possesses. However, there are certain common causes of differential failure in Jaguars.
- Wear and Tear: This is top on the list of the reasons why your car’s differential is failing. The differential possesses gears that have toothed surfaces, these surfaces continually rub against each other and as a result, the gears can easily wear out because of the friction. Once the teeth wear out, they can no longer fit properly while rotating.
- Poor Lubrication or Contaminated Lubrication Oil: Poor lubrication can cause the gear teeth to wear out much faster or even break. Your differential may also begin to wear out earlier than expected if the differential oil becomes contaminated with debris because it is not changed frequently enough. It does not need to be replaced as frequently as motor oil but it needs to be changed at intervals at the discretion of a professional.
- Defective Differential Gasket: The differential gasket keeps the differential oil from leaking. With time, it may become worn out and the seal may begin to slacken allowing the oil to escape. The driver will most likely notice signs of leakage.
You can prevent differential failure in your Jaguar through regular servicing. It is imperative that the differential is cleaned out and the lubricating oil should also be replaced. However, wear and tear are unavoidable so you should seek professional diagnostics and repair once you notice the symptoms of a differential failure.
Differential failure can greatly increase the risk of accidents. It can also cause severe damage to the vehicle’s transmission system if ignored, multiplying costs that would have been incurred through repairs.
Schearer’s Sales and Service, Inc. for Your Jaguar
At Schearer’s Sales and Service, Inc., we are skilled in performing auto-repairs and maintenance on European-made cars 
like your Jaguar. We have rendered these services to customers in and around Allentown, Bethlehem, and Macungie, PA for years.
Being the leading European Auto Specialists in the Lehigh Valley, we have a team of trained technicians who are committed to providing top-quality repairs for your vehicle. Call us at (610) 395-2514 to schedule an appointment today.
* Jaguar F-Pace Car image credit goes to: YuriyVlasenko.