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Complete Drivetrain & Differential Service

Your drivetrain is the system that delivers power from your engine to your wheels — and it’s made up of several critical components that work together to keep your vehicle moving smoothly, safely, and efficiently. At Miller Place Auto Repair, we specialize in diagnosing, servicing, and repairing the full drivetrain system for rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive vehicles.

What’s Included in the Drivetrain?

 Differential

The differential allows your wheels to rotate at different speeds during turns. This prevents tire hop, reduces stress on your suspension, and improves handling. Rear-wheel drive vehicles have a rear differential, while front-wheel drive vehicles have a front differential built into the transaxle. AWD and 4WD vehicles often have front, rear, and center differentials.

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Why service it: The gears inside the differential operate under high pressure and require clean, properly lubricating gear oil to avoid wear, noise, and failure. Fluid should be changed regularly to maintain protection and performance.
 

Transfer Case

Found on 4WD and AWD vehicles, the transfer case distributes power between the front and rear axles. It allows you to switch between 2WD and 4WD modes or sends torque automatically depending on traction conditions.

 

Why service it: The transfer case uses special fluid to protect its internal chains and gears. Dirty or low fluid can lead to shifting problems, drivetrain binding, or complete failure.
 

Driveshaft & U-Joints

The driveshaft transfers power from the transmission or transfer case to the differential. U-joints (universal joints) allow for flex and movement as the suspension travels. On front-wheel-drive vehicles, CV axles serve a similar purpose.

 

 Why service them: Worn U-joints or CV joints can cause clunking, vibrations, or total driveline failure. Regular inspections and lubrication (when applicable) prevent costly breakdowns.

CV Axles & Boots

Constant Velocity (CV) axles transfer power to the wheels in front-wheel and all-wheel-drive vehicles. The rubber boots protect the joints and keep them lubricated.

 

 Why service them: Torn boots allow grease to leak out and contaminants in, which causes joint wear and clicking noises during turns. If caught early, the boot can be replaced before the axle fails.

Transmission & Transaxle

While technically part of the drivetrain, the transmission or transaxle shifts gears and controls how much power goes to the wheels. It’s critical to maintain this unit with fluid changes and inspections to keep the whole drivetrain running smoothly.

Signs You May Need Drivetrain Service:

  •  Whining or humming noises while driving

  • Clunking or clicking when shifting or turning 

  • Fluid leaks near the axles or under the vehicle       

  • Vibration during acceleration or cruising   

  •  Trouble engaging 4WD or AWD modes

Our Drivetrain Services Include:

  • Differential & transfer case fluid changes

  • Driveshaft, U-joint, and CV axle replacement

  • Drivetrain noise diagnostics

  • Rear-end repairs and rebuilds (when needed)

  • Preventive maintenance for all AWD/4WD systems

At Miller Place Auto Repair, we use high-quality fluids and OE-spec parts, backed by decades of diagnostic experience and honest, professional service. If you’re hearing strange noises, feeling vibration, or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help.

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