When it comes to ensuring the long-term health and performance of your vehicle, few components are as critical and yet often overlooked as the differential. At Classic Import Auto Service in Greensboro, NC, we specialize in comprehensive differential repair for a wide range of vehicles, with a particular focus on European makes and fine Asian imports, including Lexus and Acura. Whether you’re hearing unusual noises, experiencing handling issues, or your vehicle simply isn’t driving the way it used to, our expert team is here to diagnose and resolve any differential problem with precision and care.
What is a Differential?
The differential is a key component of your vehicle’s drivetrain. Its main job is to distribute engine power to the wheels, allowing them to rotate at different speeds—particularly important when turning. This helps ensure better traction, smoother handling, and improved safety on the road.
There are several types of differentials—open, limited-slip, locking, and torque-vectoring—each designed to meet specific performance requirements. Whether you drive a rear-wheel-drive BMW, an all-wheel-drive Audi, or a front-wheel-drive Acura, your vehicle’s differential plays a crucial role in how it handles and performs.
When this vital component fails or begins to wear out, it can lead to serious issues, including uneven tire wear, excessive noise, and even complete drivetrain failure. That’s why timely differential repair is so important.
Signs You May Need Differential Repair
While differentials are built to last, they can wear down over time—especially if you neglect regular maintenance or your vehicle is exposed to heavy use or harsh conditions. Here are some common signs that you may need differential repair:
Whining or howling noises when turning or accelerating
Clunking sounds during gear changes or when shifting from park to drive
Excessive vibration while driving, especially at higher speeds
Leaking differential fluid, often seen as oily spots near the wheels
Uneven tire wear, particularly on the rear tires
Poor handling or difficulty turning corners
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by professionals who understand the intricacies of differential systems—especially those found in luxury and import vehicles.
Specialized Service for European Vehicles and Fine Asian Imports
At Classic Import Auto Service, our technicians are highly trained and experienced in servicing the complex drivetrains of European cars like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Audi, and Volvo, as well as Lexus and Acura vehicles. These high-performance vehicles often feature more advanced differential systems, including electronically controlled or torque-vectoring differentials that require specialized diagnostic tools and repair procedures.
We understand that the precision engineering found in these vehicles demands an equally precise approach to service. That’s why we use factory-level diagnostic equipment and OEM-quality parts to ensure that your differential repair meets the highest standards of performance and reliability.
Our Differential Repair Process
When you bring your vehicle to Classic Import Auto Service for differential repair, we begin with a thorough inspection to assess the condition of your differential and identify any issues. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Diagnostic Evaluation
We start by performing a road test and using advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the source of the problem. We’ll listen for noise, check for fluid leaks, and use scan tools to detect any fault codes or electronic issues.
2. Component Inspection
Next, we perform a visual and mechanical inspection of the differential and related components—gears, bearings, seals, and axle shafts—to determine the extent of the damage.
3. Repair or Replacement
Depending on the severity of the issue, we may recommend repairing or rebuilding the existing differential, or replacing it with a new or remanufactured unit. In many cases, replacing worn bearings, seals, or gears can restore full function without the need for a complete overhaul.
4. Fluid Replacement
Fresh, high-quality differential fluid is essential to protect your gears and keep your system running smoothly. We’ll ensure your differential is properly lubricated and filled to spec.
5. Final Testing
Once repairs are complete, we conduct a final road test to verify that your vehicle is performing as it should. We’ll also check for leaks and recalibrate any electronic components as needed.
Preventative Maintenance: Protect Your Differential
Routine maintenance is the best way to avoid costly differential repairs in the future. At Classic Import Auto Service, we recommend regular differential fluid changes based on your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations or your driving habits. For most vehicles, this service is needed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but high-performance vehicles or those used for towing may need more frequent attention.
We also offer full drivetrain inspections as part of our preventative maintenance packages, which help catch minor issues before they become major problems.
Why Choose Classic Import Auto Service?
Choosing the right shop for your differential repair is crucial—especially when you drive a finely tuned European or Asian import. Here’s what sets Classic Import Auto Service apart:
Specialized Expertise: We focus exclusively on European and select Asian vehicles, giving us deep knowledge of the systems that power your car.
State-of-the-Art Equipment: Our diagnostic tools are designed to interface directly with factory systems for accurate, reliable results.
OEM Parts and Fluids: We use only top-tier replacement parts and manufacturer-approved lubricants to ensure long-lasting repairs.
Experienced Technicians: Our team has years of hands-on experience with brands like Lexus, Acura, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz.
Customer-Centric Service: We pride ourselves on clear communication, honest recommendations, and a hassle-free experience.

Serving Greensboro, NC and Surrounding Areas
Classic Import Auto Service is proud to serve Greensboro, NC and the surrounding communities, providing high-quality differential repair and maintenance services to drivers who value performance, precision, and reliability. Whether you own a luxury European sedan, a high-performance Japanese coupe, or an all-wheel-drive SUV, you can count on us to keep your vehicle running at its best.
Schedule Your Differential Repair Today
If you suspect an issue with your differential or simply want the peace of mind that comes with expert service, don’t wait. Contact Classic Import Auto Service today to schedule your differential repair in Greensboro, NC. Let our experienced technicians restore your vehicle’s performance and keep you confidently on the road.
Call us now or book your appointment online—and experience the superior service that sets Classic Import Auto Service apart.