Differential Assembly: Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Chrysler Pacifica. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The differential gear system divides the torque between the axle shafts. It allows the axle shafts to rotate at different speeds when turning corners.
Each differential side gear is splined to an axle shaft. The pinion gears are mounted on a pinion mate shaft and are free to rotate on the shaft. The pinion gear is fitted in a bore in the differential case and is positioned at a right angle to the axle shafts.