What is front and rear differential service?

Differential services performed by one of the professional technicians at Sparks Computerized Car Care usually includes draining the old fluid from the differentials and replacing it with new fluid according to the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations and specifications. Sometimes other components surrounding the differential may need to be serviced as well.

Is it necessary to change front and rear differential fluid?

Over time, the differential fluid breaks down and becomes dirty and impacts performance. It is necessary to have your car or truck's differential serviced regularly. It is generally recommended to have the differential fluid changed every 40,000 to 60,000 miles. However, if you are a more aggressive driver you may need to get your front and rear differential fluid changed sooner. If you are in Bradenton, Sarasota, Palmetto, Ellenton or the surrounding area, give us a call and we can help you figure out what makes the most sense for your vehicle.

Undercar Services: Maintenance & Repair

SPARKS COMPUTERIZED CAR CARE > Top Level Auto Repair & Maintenance Services > UNDERCAR SERVICES

Undercar Repairs in Bradenton

At Sparks Computerized Car Care, we focus on the health of your car or truck from the ground up. Before evaluating the internal systems, we ensure that the vehicle has a solid foundation. Our comprehensive undercarriage inspections and services target this crucial, yet often overlooked, area to provide the necessary care your vehicle needs.

Avoid costly issues by bringing your vehicle in for an undercarriage inspection today. Call us at 941-746-7763 or stop by our Bradenton, FL location to schedule your appointment and keep your car running at its best! Our competitively priced undercar services include:

Alignment
Wheel alignment consists of essential car maintenance that involves adjusting the wheel angles to follow the manufacturer's specifications. This process ensures that the suspension and steering systems operate at their intended angles, thereby reducing tire wear.

Anti-Lock Brakes
Anti-lock brakes are designed to prevent wheel lock-up during rapid deceleration by automatically modulating brake pressure during emergency stops. This system allows wheels to maintain traction with the road while braking.

Brake System Flush
Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture. This moisture absorption lowers the fluid's boiling point and can lead to corrosion of the lines and cylinders. In extreme cases, the brake fluid could boil during heavy braking, resulting in a loss of braking capability. To counteract the effects of moisture absorption, auto manufacturers recommend periodic brake system flushes.

Brakes
Brakes are mechanical devices designed to slow down or halt a vehicle, primarily through the use of friction. In essence, brakes impede your vehicle's motion, allowing you to stop whenever and wherever necessary. Brakes rank among the most critical vehicle components, and without them, you would be unable to bring your vehicle to a stop.

Chassis
The chassis serves as the internal framework of your vehicle, providing support for various components such as the wheels, engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, and suspension. A weakened or damaged chassis can lead to a weaker vehicle overall.

Differential Flush
The differential is a critical vehicle component that compensates for variations in travel distance between the inner and outer wheels during turns. Typically located at the rear and under non-four-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicles, differentials often do not receive the same level of attention as engines. However, it is essential to understand that differential failure equates to vehicle failure.

Differentials
Differentials serve as the components responsible for transmitting engine power to the wheels. A key function of the differential is to distribute power to the wheels while permitting them to rotate at varying speeds, thus earning its name.

Driveline
The driveline represents a vehicle section that connects the engine and transmission to the wheel axles. This component consists of powertrain parts excluding the engine and transmission. A driveline failure translates to an immobilized vehicle, as energy cannot be transmitted from the engine to the wheel axles.

Exhaust
In motor vehicles, an exhaust system consists of piping designed to guide exhaust fumes from the engine to the vehicle's rear. A well-functioning exhaust system not only sounds better but also benefits you, your vehicle, and the environment. Sparks Computerized Car Care in Bradenton has expert technicians ready to service your car's exhaust system.

Shock Absorbers
Shocks, or shock absorbers, are mechanical devices engineered to smooth out rough road surfaces. They achieve this by converting kinetic energy into another form of energy. Properly functioning shocks minimize the impact of traveling over uneven terrain, leading to an improved ride quality and enhanced vehicle handling.

Struts
Much like shock absorbers (shocks), struts serve to dampen the effects of road surfaces as you drive. By absorbing road shocks, struts enable passengers to experience a smoother ride. Struts differ from shocks in that they provide structural support for your vehicle's suspension.

Tires
As tires age, they lose traction and degrade internally, increasing the risk of tire blowouts. Such blowouts can lead to sudden loss of vehicle control. Maintaining good tire condition is crucial for vehicle performance and safety. For all your tire-related needs, don't hesitate to contact Sparks Computerized Car Care at 941-746-7763 today.

Suspension FAQs

What is the difference between shocks and struts?

Shocks and struts are both parts of a vehicle's suspension system. However, each has a very specific job. Your vehicle has either shocks or struts. You cannot replace your shocks with struts and vice versa. Shock absorbers are hydraulic components that help minimize movement generated by the vehicle's springs. These springs absorb some of the jolts you might feel from uneven or damaged roads. Struts are structural components of certain vehicles' steering and suspension systems. They usually consist of a spring and a shock absorber. Struts are designed to be much stronger than shocks since they are designed for vehicles that carry heavy loads.

What happens if I only replace one strut or shock?

If you replace only one shock or strut, it will create poor handling when changing lanes or driving over bumps. If your car is new, replacing only one strut or shock absorber may be ok since the opposite side shock is not worn out yet. Generally, Sparks Computerized Car Care recommends replacing both shocks or struts.

Are shocks difficult to replace?

Shock absorber replacement is usually a straightforward job, taking less than an hour of labor, but they should be replaced by a professional. Some models require other components to be removed or replaced before working on the front shocks. Bring your car to Sparks Computerized Car Care in Bradenton and we will help you determine what needs to be done and get you back on the road quickly.

How often should shocks be replaced?

Experts recommend that shocks be replaced at 50,000-100,000 miles. If you are a more aggressive driver or frequently drive on rough roads, they will wear out faster. Shocks don't go out all at once, they deteriorate slowly over time. If you are noticing problems with handling, making smooth turns or ride smoothness have one of the professionals at Sparks Computerized Car Care inspect your shocks.

Are struts difficult to replace?

Replacing struts is simple and fast for a professional. Replacing your front struts yourself is not recommended, especially if you need a new complete strut assembly kit. When you get your truck's struts replaced you also need to have the front-end alignment checked. Ask the professionals at Sparks Computerized Car Care to replace your struts and we will complete the work quickly and easily.

Is it necessary to get an alignment after strut replacement?

Sparks Computerized Car Care recommends performing an alignment anytime shocks, struts or other steering and suspension components are replaced. Getting your vehicle's alignment within factory specifications ensures optimal tire wear and helps prolong the life of your tires.

What is included in a front-end alignment?

Front-end alignment is a service performed on the front wheels. The process includes adjustments to the camber, toe and casters. Your 'thrust angle adjustment' may also need adjustments, to ensure that all four wheels are in alignment.

To learn more about our Undercar services, call us at 941-746-7763 or request a quote by clicking below:

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Undercar Services

07/05/2023

They did a MAP sensor fix, replaced rear shocks, tightened struts, pointed out exhaust problem and suggested a place to get it fixed all in less than 5 hrs.
Wade Smith

Undercar Services, near Bradenton, FL

11/25/2022

The chief mechanic has a wall full of certifications and is an expert on safety and all aspects of auto repair even got a great deal on a new set of tires - the best auto repair co. I have ever seen 100 percent confidence in them I had neglected earlier repairs I am lucky to have found them.
Bernard Silver

Discover More About Undercar Repair Services At Sparks Computerized Car Care in Bradenton

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Reviews

Came here because my mechanic in Riverview wasn't certain what was causing the issues I was having with my Volkswagen Tiguan. Their concern was "running up" a bill replacing parts in hopes to "fix" my SUV only to find that the fix was not the problem. As such they referred me to Sparks. After being quoted a diagnostic fee and told I'd hear back from them within 24 hrs, I patiently but nervously waited to hear back. My mechanic advised me that their findings may not be what I wanted to hear but he was completely confident that the diagnosis would be correct. Sure as promised, I heard back the next morning and was told they found the issue and were very confident the tech's diagnosis was correct and would resolve my issues. I authorized the repairs, had the work done and now, 2 months later, I can confidently say the issue has been completely resolved! The problem I was having (involved an electrical issue) was causing my Tiguan to go into limp mode and/or sporadically run like crap. The problem? Part of the wiring harness (the sub-harness) leading to one of the fuel injectors was bad and needed to be replaced. Since the repair we complete, I've even noticed an improvement in the MPG calculation. Like a 7% improvement! My Tiguan is running absolutely perfect now. Crazy noticeable difference. Completely resolved! Gone! Hasn't happened not one more time. So, if you're looking at using Sparks based on a referral you should trust that referral. I live 1 hour away and probably passed dozens of mechanics on the way to get to Sparks. Bottom line is MY MECHANIC referred me there. And to me, that says something. Couldn't have hoped for better results. The cost was very reasonable. The shop was spotless and every person I encountered was clearly knowledgeable, competent and respectful. If I didn't live an hour away, I'd have a new mechanic for sure! But I'm very satisfied with the mechanic I use in Riverview. If not for them, I never would have found Sparks!

Robert Kohlbrenner, 07/03/2025

Diagnosis and cost estimate were accurate, and repair was done ahead of schedule. I was kept informed during the whole process.

Sperry Kaler, 07/02/2025

Great service!

Lindsay Rushmore, 07/02/2025

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