Driveline Repair in Minnesota

Your driveline is extremely important in getting your vehicle to move. All vehicles need a functioning driveline to perform. Get expert driveline services at a Heartland Tire store in Minnesota and Iowa.

What Is The Driveline in My Car?

Your vehicle's driveline is responsible for transferring power from the engine and transmission to the wheels. It's what allows your engine to propel your vehicle forward.

Components that make up the driveline include:

• • Driveshafts: Transfer power to the differential(s)
• • Differential(s): Distribute power to the wheels and allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds, which is needed for turning
• • Axle Shafts: Connect transmission and wheels; serve as a link that rotates wheels
• • U-Joints: Accommodates changes in angle and movement in the driveline.
• • CV Joints: Allow for smooth transfer of power from the transmission to the wheels while accommodating the up-and-down motion of the suspension and steering movements while keeping the drive wheels at a constant velocity.

The driveline is impacts acceleration, handling, and overall efficiency. Different vehicles have variations in driveline configurations, such as front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive systems.

Signs That I Need My Driveline Serviced

You may need a driveline repair if you experience any of the following:

• Vibration while driving, especially at higher speeds
• Unusual noises such as clunking or grinding when accelerating
• Difficulty shifting gears or slipping out of gear
• Fluid leaks under the vehicle
• Increased engine RPMs without corresponding acceleration
• Burning smell, indicating overheating components
• Worn or damaged U-joints or CV joints
• Vehicle pulling to one side during acceleration
• Excessive play in the driveline when inspected

Why is Driveline Maintenance Important?

Your driveline components require fluid to perform efficiently and reduce wear from transferring power to the wheels.

Fluid flushes are recommended at specified intervals to remove contaminants and maintain optimal lubrication. It is generally recommended to flush the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the manufacturer's guidelines and driving conditions. Differential fluid is typically changed every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, while transfer case fluid may need to be serviced every 20,000 to 40,000 miles, especially in vehicles that frequently operate in four-wheel drive.

Regular inspections of driveline components and fluid levels can prevent repairs and enhance vehicle reliability. Always consult your vehicle's owner manual for specific recommendations.

What's The Difference Between Driveline, Drivetrain, and Powertrain

• • Powertrain: Includes the driveline, engine, and transmission
• • Drivetrain: Includes the transmission and driveline components
• • Driveline: Includes the parts that connect to the transmission and engine and transfer power to the vehicle's wheels

Get Expert Driveline Repair Services at Any Heartland Tire Store in Minnesota and Iowa

If you're experiencing any of the signs of a faulty or failing driveline, you'll want to visit a trusted mechanic near you to have the driveline inspected and repaired. At Heartland Tire stores throughout Minnesota and Iowa, we offer expert driveline repair services to get your vehicle back on the road, and running smoothly. Schedule a service appointment online or visit one of our automotive service locations near you in Bloomington, MN; Brainerd, MN; Brooklyn Park, MN; Burnsville, MN; Champlin, MN; Eagan, MN; Little Falls, MN; Monticello, MN; New Ulm, MN; Ramsey, MN; Savage, MN; Spring Lake Park, MN; Shakopee, MN; St. Cloud, MN; Wadena, MN; Fairmont, MN; Fort Dodge, IA; Sioux City, IA; Spencer, IA; Storm Lake, IA; Madison City, IA; Worthington, MN; and Marshall, MN.