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Mercedes-Benz · Transmission & Drivetrain

Differential — rear

The unit splitting drive between the two rear wheels and allowing them to turn at different speeds.

Also called diff, rear axle.

How you know it is this

  • A whine that changes with road speed and varies on and off the throttle
  • A clunk on take-up
  • Oil leaking from the pinion seal or the cover
  • A knocking on tight turns — a limited-slip diff needing attention

Worth knowing before you buy

  • A whine that changes between accelerating and coasting is the classic differential sign, and it distinguishes it from a wheel bearing.
  • Oil level is the commonest neglected item here. Running one low destroys it quickly and silently.
  • The ratio matters and varies by engine and gearbox. A differential from a similar car will usually be the wrong ratio.
  • A limited-slip diff needs oil with the friction modifier or it chatters on lock.

What we need to quote it. The chassis number, so we match the ratio. The chassis number settles the generation, the body and usually the engine in seventeen characters — it is on your mulkiya. A photograph of the old part helps where there is more than one version.

PropshaftFlex discsCentre bearingUniversal jointsTransfer case (4MATIC)DifferentialsDriveshaftsCV joints and bootsDifferential mountsOutput shaft seals
Driveline — schematic, to show where the part sits. Arrangement is right; it is a diagram and not a fitment reference.

Rest of the driveline

All transmission & drivetrain parts
Get in touch

Differential — rear for your Mercedes-Benz?

Send the chassis number and a photograph of the old part. We come back with genuine, OEM and aftermarket options priced side by side, with lead times.

Mon–Sat, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM · +971 54 303 3119 (Operations Director) · +971 54 241 0599 (Managing Director)