What makes the differential go bad

[gen1pro]

I just picked my car up from the dealer and they had to replace my differential. What makes that go bad in a car. The only mod I have is a CAI. I don't race, I might drive it hard every once and a while but thats it. My warranty is almost up and I just dont want it to happen again. I did buy it used so maybe it was the person before me that caused most of the damage.

[Spooled]

Sounds like it was abused by the previous owner. You shouldn't have to worry about it if you don't race or rag on it all the time.

Edit: Dropping the clutch in first all the time will kill it.

[TX Speed Demon]

WHEEL HOP!!!!!! Anytime one wheel spins more than the other puts stress ont he LSD. It's only welded in with 3 spot welds so it's fairly easy to break with repeated stress.

Don't race from a stop or drop the clutch and you will greatly increase the life of your LSD.

[Spooled]

If you are really worried, you can have it welded. I know there are a couple people on here that have done it.

[KyRaceFan]

Its a nice design that just wasnt strengthened sufficiently. Like TX speed demon said its only welded in 3 small sections. Over time, stress weakens the welds and they can eventually break, and it just seperates.

It can be taken out and welded in more places to make it stronger, but thats just a bandaid fix, as it will still be at risk.

Be thankful they covered it under warranty, as it is alot of labor to replace.

[orng1]

if the diff breaks can it be rewelded?

[gcotton]

It can be rewelded. I tryd that on mine but it still broke. I wouldnt rekomend it. Maybe try the aftermarket if you can afford it. (1200 bucks)

[Projekt Tuner]

Yah I've heard quaife makes a kickass diff.. Just wish I could find a good low price on it somewhere.. Damn Mazda Tuning is expensive.. :-\