Author: dev

Differential fluid plays an important role in protecting your vehicle’s drivetrain. It lubricates gears and bearings inside the differential, helping these components operate smoothly while managing heat and friction.

Despite its importance, differential maintenance is easy to overlook because the fluid usually does not need attention as frequently as engine oil. The correct replacement interval depends on your vehicle’s design, driving conditions, and manufacturer maintenance schedule.

Knowing when to replace differential fluid can help reduce gear wear, protect expensive drivetrain components, and keep your vehicle operating as intended.

What Does Differential Fluid Do?

A differential allows the wheels on the same axle to rotate at different speeds when turning. This is necessary because the outside wheel travels farther than the inside wheel during a corner.

Inside the differential, gears transfer engine power to the wheels. These gears operate under substantial loads, making proper lubrication essential.

Differential fluid forms a protective film between moving metal surfaces. It also helps carry heat away from components and reduce wear.

Depending on the vehicle, the differential may use a specific gear oil or another manufacturer-approved lubricant. Some differentials, particularly limited-slip designs, require fluid with particular friction characteristics or an approved additive.

Using the wrong fluid can affect lubrication and differential operation. Always confirm the specification for your vehicle before replacing the fluid.

How Often Should Differential Fluid Be Changed?

There is no universal replacement interval for every vehicle.

Some manufacturers specify differential fluid changes at particular mileage intervals, while others call for inspection or service under certain operating conditions. Front differentials, rear differentials, and integrated transaxle arrangements may have different requirements.

The most reliable source is the maintenance schedule for your exact vehicle.

When checking the recommended interval, consider:

• Your vehicle’s year, make, and model
• Whether it has front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, or four-wheel drive
• The type of differential installed
• The manufacturer’s specified fluid
• The vehicle’s mileage and service history
• Whether you regularly tow, haul heavy loads, or drive off-road

If you frequently tow a trailer, carry heavy cargo, or operate your vehicle in demanding conditions, your manufacturer may specify more frequent service.

When purchasing a used vehicle with incomplete maintenance records, ask a technician to identify the differential type and review the required service. A fluid change may be appropriate if the maintenance history is unknown, but the correct procedure should be confirmed first.

What Are the Signs Your Differential Fluid Needs Attention?

Differential problems can develop gradually. Several symptoms may indicate that the fluid level, fluid condition, or internal components need inspection.

Whining or Howling Noises

A whining or howling noise that changes with vehicle speed may indicate differential gear wear, bearing problems, incorrect fluid level, or another drivetrain issue.

The sound may become more noticeable during acceleration or deceleration. However, similar noises can come from wheel bearings, tires, or transmission components.

Clunking When Accelerating

A clunk when shifting from Drive to Reverse or applying power may come from drivetrain backlash, worn mounts, damaged joints, or differential wear.

Fluid replacement alone will not repair damaged gears or loose mechanical components. A proper inspection can help identify the source.

Fluid Leaks

Oil around the differential housing, axle seals, or pinion seal may indicate a leak. A low fluid level can leave gears and bearings without adequate lubrication.

If you notice fresh oil beneath the differential or around the axle area, arrange an inspection. Severe leakage can cause substantial damage if the vehicle continues operating with insufficient lubricant.

Burning Smells

Excessive heat from a low fluid level, incorrect lubricant, or heavy operating conditions can contribute to a burning odor near drivetrain components.

If you notice a strong burning smell alongside unusual noises or visible leakage, stop driving when it is safe and seek professional advice.

Differential fluid can also look dark as it ages, but color alone cannot reliably establish whether it needs replacement. The manufacturer’s schedule and a technician’s inspection provide better guidance.

What Happens During a Differential Fluid Change?

A typical service involves inspecting the differential housing and seals, removing the old lubricant, checking for abnormal contamination, and refilling the unit with the specified fluid.

Some differentials have drain and fill plugs. Others require different service procedures. A technician may also inspect the fluid for unusual metal particles or other signs of internal wear.

The fluid level must be set correctly according to the manufacturer’s procedure. Overfilling or underfilling can create problems, and certain vehicles require specific temperatures or positioning during the check.

If the differential contains excessive metal debris, has a serious leak, or produces unusual noises, additional diagnosis may be necessary before returning the vehicle to regular use.

Does Every Vehicle Have a Separate Differential?

A rear-wheel-drive vehicle generally has a rear differential, while many front-wheel-drive vehicles incorporate differential functions into the transaxle. All-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive vehicles may have multiple differentials, along with a transfer case or other drivetrain components that have separate fluid requirements.

This is why a generic maintenance interval can be misleading. A technician should identify every applicable drivetrain component and confirm the correct fluid specification.

Protect Your Drivetrain With Routine Maintenance

Differential fluid is a relatively small part of your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, but it helps protect components that can be expensive to repair.

Following the correct replacement interval, using the specified lubricant, and addressing leaks early can help maintain reliable drivetrain operation.

Differential & Drivetrain Services in the Salt Lake Valley

If you are unsure when your differential fluid was last changed, or your vehicle has developed whining noises, clunking, or signs of a leak, schedule an inspection with the trusted team at Matson Point S in Riverton, Utah. Our technicians have extensive training in providing the utmost quality of drivetrain care and repair no matter the issue you’re facing. 

Give us a call or schedule online today to secure your appointment with the premier differential and drivetrain repair facility in the Salt Lake Valley!

What Does a Thermostat Do?

What Are The Signs of a Bad/Failing Thermostat?​

• Overheating and Overcooling
• Coolant Leaking
• Strange noises coming from the radiator
• Temperature Changes
• Heater Problems

Overheating and Overcooling

Coolant Leaking

Strange sounds coming from the radiator

Temperature Changes

Heater Problems

Changing/Testing Thermostat Guide

Cooling System Repair in Riverton, UT

Since its inclusion became standard in new vehicles, power steering has been taken for granted by most drivers. It’s easy to overlook it when working properly, but when your steering feels off, you’ll be hard-pressed to ignore the issue for long.

What Is Power Steering

Prior to the addition of power steering to most vehicles, turning the vehicle meant turning the entire weight of the vehicle. 

Traditional power steering solves this problem through the use of hydraulics, which use an incompressible fluid to amplify and transfer forces from one place to another. This allows for the movement of the steering wheel to feel light and manageable while still turning the vehicle.

How Does Hydraulic Power Steering Work?

The power steering system starts with the pump, which continuously circulates pressurized power steering fluid throughout the system. Using a component called a rotary valve, fluid is directed either back to the pump or into either side of the fluid reservoir. 

While the steering wheel is in a neutral position, all of the fluid is looped back to the pump. However, when turning, the hydraulic piston will be shifted to the side and the fluid will be directed to the opposite side’s fluid reservoir. This pressure difference will allow you to turn the vehicle with little force on the steering wheel. 

Symptoms of Bad Power Steering Pump

Whining or Groaning Sounds

One of the telltale signs of a bad power steering pump is the distinct whining noise it may make when turning the wheel. This sound is primarily caused by an effect called “cavitation”, which is when air bubbles present in the hydraulic fluid hit the impeller causing a worrisome groan. The presence of air bubbles or lack of fluid can be caused by a leak in the pump itself.

This noise doesn’t always mean your pump has an issue, as cavitation can occur from reasons such as old fluid or the introduction of air bubbles elsewhere in the system. 

“Stiff” Steering Feel

Another possible symptom of a bad power steering pump is the lack of hydraulic assistance when turning. As hydraulic fluid isn’t being pumped through the system (or at least at the same rate), your steering wheel may feel extra difficult to rotate. 

Visible Leaks

One of the most obvious signs your pump is on its way out is if it’s leaking. Of course, these fluid leaks can happen from various places throughout the steering system, but when present in the power steering pump it’s time to have yours replaced. 

A leaking pump will continually cause your vehicle to run with low fluid, which can not only damage the pump further but also the other sensitive steering components around it. 

Silver Flecks in Fluid

Although a rare problem, bits of your power steering pump can begin to dissolve into the fluid and leave noticeable flecks of metal throughout. As you might guess, there isn’t much that can be done to repair this, and the pump will likely require replacement. 

How Do I Protect My Power Steering Pump?

If you’re wondering how to avoid these issues and help your power steering pump run as long as possible, there are some simple steps you can take:

Ensure Proper Fluid Quality

The easiest step is making sure that the fluid running through your pump is in the proper condition. As fluid cavitates and fills with air bubbles it will cause rapid wear to the components within the pump. 

Keep an Eye Out For Leaks

Running the correct level of fluid is crucial to the health of your power steering pump, so any leaks in the system could cause damage to your pump if the fluid reaches a low enough level. If you notice a red fluid leaking from under your vehicle, you should have your vehicle inspected promptly by a trusted automotive professional.

Use the Proper Fluid

While all power steering fluid has the same purpose, that doesn’t mean they’re all interchangeable. Many of these fluids have different chemical makeups, which their power steering systems are designed to run and handle. However, when using the wrong fluid, it can create chemical reactions with leftover fluid and sensitive gaskets. 

Some vehicles recommend using a certain type of automatic transmission fluid in the power steering system due to their similar makeup and properties. However, you should be extra sure your vehicle is meant to run ATF rather than purpose-made power steering fluid. 

Your owner’s manual will be the most accurate place to find what kind of power steering fluid is necessary in your vehicle. 

Steering System Services in Riverton, Utah

If you’re located in the Salt Lake Valley area and need your vehicle’s steering system inspected or repaired, trust the experienced technicians at Matson Point S in Riverton. No matter the location you visit, our friendly team and friendly advisors will ensure your vehicle is receiving the proper care! Give us a call or schedule online today.

Maintaining proper air pressure in your tires is vital to keeping your vehicle performing as it should, as inadequate PSI in just one tire can cause significant losses in efficiency and handling performance, increased braking distance, and increased wear that could leave you needing a replacement earlier than expected. 

If you notice an active tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning on your dashboard, it likely means at least one of your tires is low on air. But that may leave you wondering, how do I actually add more air to my tires?

In this article, we’ll cover why proper tire pressure is so important and how you can add air to your vehicle’s tires when needed.

Why is Tire Pressure Important to My Vehicle?

While a slightly deflated tire may seem like something you can push down the line and continue driving on, there are a few critical reasons why this is not the best idea.

For one, deflated tires can reduce your vehicle’s MPG by a significant amount. According to the United States Department of Energy, a vehicle running 75% of the recommended tire pressure in all four tires may see efficiency drops as large as 2%-3% across all driving speeds. At 50% capacity, this effect worsens even further, with losses of up to 10% recorded at normal surface-street speeds (40 MPH). 

Beyond just efficiency, low tire pressure also affects the performance and handling of the vehicle. The low PSI allows for the tire to “flex” more than it should around corners, reducing the vehicle’s ability to stay planted during turns.

The most important reason to avoid driving on low-pressure tires is simple: safety. Low PSI causes the vehicle’s stopping distance to increase and control to decrease, potentially landing you in some dangerous circumstances. Driving on a deflated tire for an excessive amount of time can prove even worse, as the increased rate of wear could cause the tire to fail prematurely. 

How Do I Add Air to My Tires?

Now that you know the importance of keeping your tires filled up, how do you actually go about doing that? Luckily, this process is generally very simple and can be completed in a matter of minutes.

Step 1 – Find a Compressor to Use

Your first order of business is locating an air pump you can use to top off your tires. The vast majority of gas stations will have tire filling stations you can pay a few bucks to use, but at-home air compressors will also work just fine for this as well. Pull your vehicle into a spot where the hose can reach all four tires (or at least the ones you intend to fill).

Step 2 – Find Your Recommended PSI

Not all tires are created equal, and some may require a higher or lower PSI than others. The best way to find the proper pressure is to look at the sticker placed on the driver’s side door jam, which is the portion of the door that is covered when closed. Alternatively, you can likely find it by taking a look at the owner’s manual or the PSI number listed on the sidewalls of some tires. 

Step 3 – Remove the Tire Valve Caps

The valve stems, or the threaded metal stems on the wheels used to let pass through, will be covered by a valve cap which should be removed. Place the caps in your pocket or within the vehicle so you can be sure not to lose them. 

Step 4 – Place Compressor Fitting Over Valve Stem

After activating the compressor and finding your optimal PSI, you’ll want to place the compressor’s fitting on the valve stem of the tire you want to fill. This will begin to fill the tire with air. 

Step 5 – Fill To Proper PSI

Now that you have air going into the tire, it’s time to fill it to the proper level. Keep an eye on the pressure gauge located on the compressor as the pressure builds, and remove the compressor’s fitting when adequate PSI has been reached. If you’ve accidentally overfilled your tire, you can press the metal pin located in the center of the valve stem to let air escape. 

Step 6 – Replace Valve Caps

Now your tire is all filled up! All you need to do now is put those valve stem caps back on. These caps are important for preventing valve stem damage from road debris and help to keep the air inside the tire. 

Tire Services at Matson Point S

If you’re experiencing issues with your tires, trust the experts at Matson Pont S in Riverton for tire services and replacements! Our technicians have extensive experience serving the tires of all makes and models, and have the expertise and equipment to properly care for your vehicle! Give us a call or schedule online today.

The many gaskets we have in our cars are a small but essential piece in keeping the vehicle running safely and smoothly. There are gaskets in nearly every system within the engine, all working to keep essential fluids like oil where they should be.

Keeping oil in the engine is just as important as having oil in the first place, and that wouldn’t be possible without silicone and rubber gaskets. Metal on metal connections do not form a proper seal, and would allow oil to seep out of where it needs to be.

What Does the Valve Cover Gasket Do?

The valve cover protects some of the most vital and carefully calibrated parts of your vehicle, and keeps the high pressure oil there to lubricate it all. The valve cover gasket is exactly what it sounds like, a gasket for the valve cover. It essentially maintains the seal between the valve cover and the cylinder head, and prevents oil from escaping. 

The gasket is usually made of silicone, rubber, or cork and provides a cushion for the seal. With use though, the gasket is gradually worn down by the oil and heat and can eventually no longer properly serve its purpose. 

What Happens When the Gasket Goes Bad?

As oil starts to leave the system, there are a host of issues that can come up. As your engine loses oil, the wear on internal components increases.. Low oil levels can lead to catastrophic problems for your engine, and despite a gasket replacement costing a little upfront, it’ll save massive headaches for you and your wallet down the line.

How Do I Know If My Valve Cover Gasket Is Bad?

A bad valve cover gasket has multiple different symptoms, some that are similar to other issues with your engine and some that are unique to the specific gasket. Some of the symptoms that can be signs of a bad gasket include:

Visible Oil Leaks 

When oil is able to escape, it’ll often leak onto different parts of the engine that may be visible when you pop your hood. Other times, it can drip all the way to the ground and you’ll be left with a blackish brown stain on your driveway under the engine bay. Keep an eye out for these leaks, as having an engine soaked in oil is a good indicator that something isn’t right. 

Low Engine Oil

With an oil leak comes the accompanying low oil light. If you have an oil light illuminated on your dash or suspect low oil, shut off your car and check your dipstick, as running with low oil can be harmful for your engine even in short periods of time. If you know you have low oil, top off your engine immediately and bring your car to an expert

Smell of Burning Oil

Often when oil is leaking from the valve cover, it can drip onto extremely hot parts in your engine such as the exhaust pipes or engine block. If you smell burning oil it means your engine is losing oil, and may have or will soon reach dangerously low levels. If you smell this distinct smell, make sure to take it into a service shop to locate and fix the source of the leak. 

Misfires

With a bad gasket, the oil is able to leak into the spark plug wells and eventually soak the spark plugs. This can result in your engine misfiring, which is the failure of a cylinder to ignite during the engine’s cycle. Misfires will result in reduced performance, and the spark plugs will need to be replaced. In serious cases, misfires can even lead to engine fires. It’s important to look for misfire codes on your dash, and take your car in for service as soon as you see one. In severe instances, you might see your check engine light blinking repeatedly. You should pull over immediately and have your car towed to a professional, as driving with a severe misfire can cause extremely expensive damage to your catalytic converters. 

Valve Cover Gasket Service at Matson Point S

If you suspect a problem with your valve cover gasket, or any other gaskets for that matter, Matson Point S has you covered at our Riverton repair shop. Our experienced and certified technicians will make sure your car is all buttoned up so it can spend more time on the road and not in the shop. Call or schedule an appointment online with us today!