About Us
About Dave's Auto Repair
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An Auto Repair Shop You Can Trust
Dave's Auto Repair was established by David Robinson, a fourth-generation Nevada City native, in 1989. The shop was initially located at the old Shell Station on Union Street. Now, you can find us at 747 Zion St — right up the street from SPD Market. We also have a second shop, Muffler & Brake Barn, that opened 2 doors down at 795 Zion St. Our locally owned business is a member of the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce, the 49er Rotary Breakfast Club of Nevada City, and E Clampus Vitus.
Dave's Auto Repair
No job is too big or too small for our qualified team. Dave works with 2 full-time technicians to perform oil changes, repairs, and even total engine replacements. Our ASE Master-certified technicians are proud to provide you with cost-effective auto repairs. We're also licensed by the State of California as a smog repair and test inspection station.
Muffler & Brake Barn
Ray Bente is an ASE-certified under-car and brake specialist who manages the Muffler & Brake Barn. He's also a California-licensed brake and lamp adjuster. Make us your local choice for everything, from installing a simple tailpipe to installing a complete custom exhaust system on your hot rod.
Simple Answers from Dave's Auto Repair for Nevada City: Differential Service
Dec 25th, 2019
Question
What is a differential and why do I need to have it serviced?
Answer
First – your vehicle does have a differential. If it’s rear wheel drive, your differential is on the back. If it’s front wheel drive, your differential is built into your transaxle (transmission). If you have all wheel drive or four-wheel drive you’ve got differentials on the front and rear and maybe one in between.
When you are steering through a turn, the wheels on the outside of the vehicle must spin faster than the inside wheels because they have to travel a slightly longer distance through the curve. The differential compensates for these speed differences between the wheels.
Because it is part of the equipment that transfers engine power to the wheels, the differential is working pretty hard. Differential fluid – a special heavy-duty oil – cools, lubricates and protects the differential. It needs to be replaced on a schedule to remove metal shavings and other contaminants. Note: if you have a front wheel drive vehicle, replacing your transmission fluid takes care of your differential service needs.
Differentials have become increasingly sophisticated. Rather than the simple mechanical devices of yesteryear, they are more complicated and may actually be part of the computer-controlled stability system. This means they are more expensive, so it pays to have them serviced on schedule to avoid premature wear.
Give us a call
Dave's Auto Repair
747 Zion St
Nevada City, CA 95959
530.265.6706