What does the differential do in a vehicle?

The differential plays a crucial role in enabling the wheels of a vehicle to rotate at varying speeds, particularly during turns. When a vehicle navigates a corner, the outside wheels must cover a greater distance than the inside wheels. The differential allows for this difference in wheel speed, ensuring smoother handling, improved traction, and stability.

Without a differential, all the wheels would have to spin at the same rate, which would create tire wear and potentially lead to handling difficulties, especially on turns. This function is essential for maintaining control and performance, making it a key component in the drivetrain of vehicles.