How Many Types of Automotive Differentials Are There?
2 Answers
There are six types of automotive differentials: gear-type, limited-slip, twin-worm, center, LSD, and Torsen differentials. The automotive differential is a mechanism that allows the left and right (or upper and lower) drive wheels to rotate at different speeds. It consists of left and right axle gears, planetary gears, and a gear carrier. The function of the automotive differential is to enable the left and right wheels to roll at different speeds when the vehicle turns or travels on uneven road surfaces, ensuring that both drive wheels perform rolling motion. It is designed to adjust the speed difference between the left and right wheels. Based on operational characteristics, automotive differentials are categorized into gear-type differentials and limited-slip differentials.
There are mainly five types of differentials. The most common is the open differential, used in regular family cars. It allows the left and right wheels to rotate at different speeds when cornering, while distributing power equally when driving straight. However, it fails when one wheel slips on mud or ice. The limited-slip differential (LSD) is much smarter, like the one used in the Civic Type R, which automatically sends more power to the wheel with better traction. The Torsen differential is even more advanced, distributing torque through gear meshing principles—Audi Quattro relies on it. Then there’s the locking differential, essential for off-road vehicles like the Wrangler. When manually locked, it rigidly connects the left and right wheels, making it extremely effective for rock crawling. Modern high-end electric vehicles use electronic differentials, which individually control the torque of each wheel via electric motors, ensuring rock-solid stability during cornering.
