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Used Front and Rear Differentials for Sale, Matched by Gear Ratio
Quiet a whining or grinding rear end with a used OEM differential that matches your axle. We confirm the gear ratio and differential type from your VIN and axle code, show you photos of the actual unit, and ship by freight across the United States.
Find Your Used Differential
Free matched quote from a parts specialist
Have your VIN ready. Your specialist uses it to confirm the factory gear ratio and differential type. It is on the dashboard, the door jamb and your registration.
Free quote. No obligation.
1-888-383-2439Outside business hours? Send your request anytime and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
- BBB AccreditedRated A by the BBB
- 5-star Google reviewsFrom real customers
- Gear ratio matchedAxle code checked by VIN
- Free LTL freightTracked to your shop
- Secure paymentsVisa, Mastercard, Amex, PayPal
Used Differentials From FirstChoice at a Glance
FirstChoice Used Auto Parts sells used OEM front and rear differentials and carrier assemblies, including open, limited slip and locking units to buyers across the United States. Every differential is matched to the customer’s VIN, axle code and gear ratio, photographed for approval before shipping, and covered by a 90-day parts warranty.
- What we sell
- Used OEM front and rear differentials and carrier assemblies, including open, limited slip and locking units
- Fitment
- Matched by VIN, axle code and gear ratio
- Warranty
- 90 days, parts only
- Shipping
- Free LTL freight to a commercial or business address, targeted within 5 business days of photo approval
- Savings
- Up to 70% less than a new dealer part, plus 10% off when you order by phone
- Support
- 1-888-383-2439, Mon to Fri, 9 AM to 6 PM EST. Enquire anytime
Signs of a Failing Differential
Differential problems get louder and more expensive with every mile. These are the symptoms to act on.
Whine or howl that changes with speed
A steady whine on acceleration or deceleration usually points to worn ring and pinion gears or a bad pinion bearing.
Clunk when shifting or taking off
A clunk going from drive to reverse, or on takeoff, suggests excess backlash or worn spider gears.
Gear oil leaking
Dark, thick oil at the pinion seal, axle seals or cover means the unit has been running low, which speeds up wear.
Vibration that builds with speed
A worn pinion bearing or damaged gear set can send a vibration through the floor that gets worse as you speed up.
Binding or tire scrub in turns
A limited slip or locking unit that will not release makes the inside tire hop or chirp in tight corners.
Seeing These Signs? Get a Matched Differential Quote
Free quote, no obligation. A parts specialist checks fitment against your VIN before you pay.
Why Buy Your Used Differential From Us
Two differentials can look identical and carry different ratios, spline counts or locker types. Our process is built to get the exact match the first time.
Matched by gear ratio and axle code
We decode your VIN and axle code to confirm the ratio and differential type before quoting, so front and rear stay in step and your speedometer reads right.
See your differential before it ships
After you order, the supplier photographs the actual differential once it is pulled. Nothing ships until you approve those photos.
Free LTL freight with tracking
Differentials ship by freight carrier at no shipping charge, and you receive the carrier and tracking details by email.
90-day parts warranty
Every used differential includes a 90-day parts warranty. If it arrives damaged or incorrect, we replace it or refund you.
- Up to70%less than new dealer prices
- 90-dayparts warranty on every order
- 5 daysdelivery target after photo approval
- 70+vehicle makes in our finder
Used Differentials for Popular Makes
Choose your make to start a matched quote. We source differentials for most domestic and import cars, SUVs and trucks.
Don’t see your make? The finder lists more than 70 makes. Browse all vehicle makes or call 1-888-383-2439.
How Buying a Used Differential Works
Four steps from your vehicle details to delivery, with nothing shipped until you approve it.
Tell us your vehicle
Enter your year, make and model, and have your VIN and, if you know it, the axle tag or gear ratio ready.
Get your matched quote
A parts specialist confirms fit by VIN, axle code and gear ratio, then sends your price, warranty term and shipping details.
Approve real photos
Once you order, you review photos of your actual differential before it leaves the supplier.
Differential ships to you
We aim to deliver within 5 business days of photo approval, with tracking sent by email.
Quality, Warranty and Shipping You Can Check
Clear terms before you buy, so there are no surprises after.
Condition and fit
- We confirm the differential is in stock and in good condition with the supplier before your order ships
- VIN, axle code and gear ratio matched to your vehicle
- Photos of your actual differential for you to approve
Warranty and returns
- 90-day parts warranty on every used differential
- Damaged or incorrect part: replaced, or refunded in full if no replacement is available
- Parts only. Labor is not covered
Nationwide freight
- Free LTL freight shipping on differentials
- Delivered to a commercial or business address, such as your repair shop
- Carrier and tracking details emailed within 2 days of shipment
- Inspect the shipment on arrival and note any damage on the bill of lading
Used Differential Buying Guide
Know which part you need before you buy.
| Type | How it works | Best for | What to match |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open differential | Lets the wheels on one axle turn at different speeds and sends power to the wheel with less grip | Daily driving on pavement | Gear ratio and axle code |
| Limited slip (Posi) | Clutches or gears send some power to the wheel with more grip | Towing, wet roads and light off-road use | Gear ratio, axle code and the factory limited slip option |
| Locking differential | Locks both wheels together, automatically or with a switch | Off-road and low traction work | Gear ratio, locker type and the actuator connector |
Match the gear ratio
On a 4WD vehicle the front and rear ratios must match, or the driveline binds. Gear ratio guide
Know your differential type
Open, limited slip and locking units are not interchangeable without the right parts. Posi vs limited slip vs locker
Diagnose before you buy
Wheel bearings and tires can make noises that sound like a bad differential. Signs of a failing differential
Used Differential FAQs
Where can I buy a used differential online?
You can request a used differential quote from FirstChoice Used Auto Parts online or by calling 1-888-383-2439, Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM EST. Send a request anytime and we will get back to you as soon as possible. We are based in Louisville, Kentucky, match every differential to your VIN, axle code and gear ratio, and ship across the United States.
How much does a used differential cost?
Used differential prices vary with the vehicle, front or rear position, gear ratio, differential type and availability. A used OEM differential usually costs up to 70% less than a new one from a dealer, and you get 10% off when you order by phone. The fastest way to an exact price is a free quote using your VIN.
How do I find the gear ratio of my differential?
Check the tag on the differential cover or axle tube, the axle code on the door jamb sticker, or the RPO codes in the glove box on GM vehicles. Your VIN also lets us confirm the factory ratio. See our gear ratio guide.
What are the signs of a bad differential?
Common signs are a whine or howl that changes with speed, clunking when you shift or take off, gear oil leaks, vibration, and binding in turns. Read signs of a failing differential before you buy.
Can I change gear ratios when I replace my differential?
On a 2WD vehicle you can, but the speedometer and shift points will need recalibrating. On 4WD and AWD vehicles the front and rear ratios must match exactly, so always replace like for like unless you change both axles.
Should I buy a differential or a complete axle assembly?
If the housing and axle shafts are sound, a differential or carrier alone usually costs less. If the housing is bent or several parts are worn, a complete used axle assembly is the simpler swap. Compare both in differential vs axle assembly.
Do you sell front differentials for 4WD and AWD vehicles?
Yes. We source front and rear differentials for 2WD, 4WD and AWD cars, SUVs and trucks. Tell us your vehicle, VIN and whether you need the front or rear unit, and we will confirm what is available.
Do your used differentials come with a warranty?
Yes. Every used differential comes with a 90-day parts-only warranty. Labor costs are not covered. Full terms are in our warranty policy.
Do you ship used differentials across the United States?
Yes. Differentials ship by LTL freight with no shipping charge. Because of their size and weight, they are delivered to a commercial or business address, such as your repair shop. See the shipping policy for details.
What Our Customers Say
“Prompt delivery of the correct part. Been six months or more and still going strong. Will for sure use this business again in the future.”
“Knowledgeable staff. Mike handled everything and made this easy. Car’s fixed, customer is happy in half of the time I had already spent elsewhere. Thanks guys”
“First choice really came through for me. They’re rep, John Jacobs. Was very helpful. I received the part within 1 week of ordering. I will definitely make them my “First Choice” again.”
A Real Parts Team You Can Reach
About FirstChoice Used Auto Parts
FirstChoice Used Auto Parts is a used OEM parts seller based in Louisville, Kentucky, serving drivers and repair shops across the United States. Every quote is handled by a parts specialist who checks fitment against your VIN before you pay.
- Louisville, Kentucky. Shipping across the United States
- BBB Accredited Business, rated A
- 5-star Google reviews from real customers
- 1-888-383-2439, Mon to Fri, 9 AM to 6 PM EST
How This Page Was Written
Written and reviewed by the FirstChoice parts team, using the same checks we run every business day when we match differentials to a VIN.
Repair and fitment notes are general guidance. Ask a qualified mechanic to confirm the diagnosis and the exact part before you order.
Last reviewed:
Related Drivetrain Parts
Ready to Find Your Replacement Differential?
Share your year, make and model, have your VIN and, if you know it, the axle tag or gear ratio ready for the best match, and get a free quote with your warranty term and shipping details.
- Free quote, no obligation
- Photos before it ships
- 90-day parts warranty
Mon to Fri, 9 AM to 6 PM EST. Outside business hours? Send your request anytime and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
