Comprehensive 4X4 Services

Comprehensive 4x4 and All-Wheel Drive Vehicle Services

When it comes to maintaining your standard 4-wheel drive (4x4) and all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles, the skilled technicians at NorthStar Auto Repair possess years of experience and specialized knowledge.

AWD systems operate as full-time 4-wheel-drive setups, where all four wheels receive torque from the engine simultaneously. These intricate systems require unique attention, and we're here to cater to their distinct needs. Below are some of the services we offer:

Alignment
Wheel alignment (or simply alignment) is standard car maintenance that involves adjusting the angles of the wheels so that they are set to the manufacturer's specifications. The main purpose is to let the suspension and the steering systems operate at their desired angles - this reduces tire wear. Alignment is a complicated process and not all mechanics get it right. To have experts handle your car's alignment, visit NorthStar Auto Repair.

Differentials
The differential transfers the engine power to the wheels. One important function of the differential is to pass on power to the wheels while allowing them to rotate at different speeds - thus the name differential. When turning, the outer wheels travel a larger distance than the inner wheels do (also the front wheels travel a longer distance than the rear wheels). This means that all four wheels travel at different speeds during a turn and this is where the differential comes in to help. To make sure your vehicle's differentials are working properly, have them checked regularly. Contact NorthStar Auto Repair today for differentials examination and servicing.

Driveline
A driveline is a part of your motor vehicle that connects the engine and the transmission to the wheel axles. The driveline consists of the parts of the powertrain less the engine and transmission. Failure of the driveline means that the car would not move since energy cannot be transmitted from the engine to the wheel axles. Therefore, make sure that your car's driveline is regularly inspected and serviced. And, at NorthStar Auto Repair, you can have the driveline serviced by experts.

Hubs, Seals, Studs, & Nuts
A wheel hub motor, also referred to as a wheel motor, is an electric motor incorporated into the wheel hub and drives it directly. You can have a safer and smoother ride today by replacing your warped and worn out wheel hubs. Let NorthStar Auto Repair replace your worn out hubs today.

Properly working seals provide oil and grease sealing - offering enhanced performance in a wide range of temperatures and environments. Worn out or warped seals allow external contaminants to enter the bearing unit or let lubricant escape from the unit. This ultimately leads to premature failure of the bearing unit. To keep out contamination and retain lubricant in the bearings, have the seals replaced with new ones. To have the seals replaced by experts, contact or visit NorthStar Auto Repair today.

Studs are the threaded fasteners that hold on the wheels of your truck. The wheel studs are permanently mounted on the wheel hub through the brake disk or brake drum. To secure the wheel, nuts (lug nuts) are fastened over the stud. Stripped wheel studs can be quite dangerous. Damaged wheel studs should be replaced with new ones immediately. To have your truck's wheel studs replaced with high quality ones, call 906-482-3773 or visit NorthStar Auto Repair today.

A wheel nut or lug nut is a fastener for securing a wheel on the hub. A set of lug nuts are used to secure a wheel to the threaded wheel studs (which are fixed to a wheel hub). Worn out nuts means one thing - the wheel is not fixed securely on the vehicle which puts the vehicle at the risk of rolling over. To have your truck's wheels securely fastened to the hub, contact or visit NorthStar Auto Repair in Houghton, MI 49931 today.

Transfer Cases
A transfer case is a part of a four wheel drive system found in four wheel drive and all wheel drive vehicles. The transfer case receives power from the transmission and sends it to both the front and rear axles. This can be done with a set of gears, but the majority of transfer cases manufactured today are chain driven. The transfer case is connected to the transmission and also to the front and rear axles by means of drive shafts. Trust the automotive experts at NorthStar Auto Repair for all your transmission repairs.

Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings are found inside of wheels, allowing the wheels to spin freely, and are connected to the brake system. They can become worn over time, causing a vibrating suspension and noisy rubbing as the car is driven. If they break completely, the vehicle will become very difficult to control and unsafe to drive. Replacement interval for wheel bearings varies greatly, but they should be checked for leaks and wear periodically. NorthStar Auto Repair can make sure that your bearings are in good shape and let you know if they need replacement.

4x4 FAQs

Is there a difference between four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive?

Both all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) engage all four wheels, but with a twist. AWD uses three differentials (front, rear, and center) for continuous power distribution, making it ideal for everyday driving with improved traction. 4WD typically uses two differentials and can be switched between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes, offering more control for off-road adventures.

Are 4x4 vehicles meant just for off-road driving?

While off-roading is their specialty, 4x4s aren't just for outdoor enthusiasts. Their enhanced grip and stability tackle slippery city streets and uneven landscapes with ease, offering peace of mind for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who values dependable performance in diverse conditions.

Is running a four-wheel drive expensive?

Four-wheel drive fuel economy and maintenance might seem daunting, but it's a nuanced picture. Frequent off-road adventures and towing will impact costs differently than city commutes. Analyze your driving habits and needs before comparing 4x4 and 2 wheel drive costs.

Discover More About 4x4 Repair Services At NorthStar Auto Repair in Houghton

Car & Truck Care Services
Alignment Services