vag servicing

Why Differential Servicing Matters – Don’t Skip It!

Your vehicle’s differential is essential for transferring power to the wheels, especially when turning or when grip levels change. In VAG vehicles (particularly those equipped with quattro or Haldex all-wheel-drive systems) the differential works hard behind the scenes to ensure balanced traction, stability, and control in all driving conditions. The differential is the gear train that allows the wheels on a drive axle to rotate at different speeds when cornering. This prevents the wheels from scrubbing or skidding.

Over time, the differential oil begins to degrade. It collects debris and loses its ability to lubricate and protect the internal gears properly. When this happens, you may experience symptoms such as; whining noises, clunky gear engagement, vibration during acceleration, or even full mechanical failure if left unaddressed. Replacing or rebuilding a failed differential can be extremely expensive. Often far more than the cost of routine maintenance.

What is recommended?

That’s why we strongly recommend differential servicing every 40,000 miles or as advised by the manufacturer. The service includes draining the old fluid, inspecting for signs of contamination or metal particles, and refilling with high-quality differential oil suited to your drivetrain. For Haldex-equipped vehicles, changing the fluid and replacing the filter is crucial. Skipping this step can lead to pump failure or issues with AWD engagement. Problems that could have been easily avoided.

Whether your vehicle is stock or tuned, keeping your differential properly serviced helps preserve smooth power delivery. As well as enhancing grip, and protecting against premature wear. It’s a small investment that pays off in performance, reliability, and peace of mind.

Book your differential or Haldex service today—your drivetrain will thank you!

Contact us by phone on 01642 613852 or on Facebook ‘here‘.

Why choose us for servicing when deciding where to take your vehicle for maintenance?

Everyone knows the main dealers are generally more expensive than independent garages. But are you getting your moneys worth? No one can deny having the ease of paying for a service plan monthly instead of a lump sum each year is handy, however not when you’re paying up to double the amount you should be. Although our parts can be the same, our labour rate is far cheaper than the main dealers. We are then able to pass that saving onto the customer.

Our servicing covers the same aspects at a fraction of the cost from the main dealer. We use Genuine and OEM only parts enabling your warranty to stay valid. We carry out in depth vehicle inspection on both the interim and major services. We can also update the online service portal keeping your service history up to date. Outlined below is exactly what we include in our servicing to be completely transparent.

Whats included?

Interim – A 26 point Visual inspection of the vehicle: Checking brakes, Suspension, Exhaust systems, Engine State, Auxillery components, Lighting, Wheels and Tyres, Body work corrosion. Replacement of the engine oil and filter. Finally, check and top up all under bonnet fluids.

Major – As per the interim service with a 37 point vehicle check. Removal of wheels and clean hub faces. Check transmission fluids (Excluding automatic gearboxes). Replacement of Engine oil and filter, Air filter, Pollen Filter, Fuel filter*, Spark plugs*. Check and top up all under bonnet fluids.

*Where applicable.

With over 25 years in the business (and a combined staff experience of over 60+ years) you can be sure your vehicle will be in good hands. Our service inspections come with a traffic light system working from green (parts in working order) amber (needs attention within a time frame) and red (unsafe/illegal and needs replacing asap). You can take your vehicle away fully aware of its condition. Any work required we can quote you ahead of your next booking so you know how much it will cost to repair and plan your budget accordingly.

If you need information on pricing and availability you can contact us on 01642 613852 or use our contact page here: