What is the drive axle's main function?

• A. keep the suspension straight
• B. eliminate body roll
• C. permit the wheels to turn at different speeds
• D. all of the above

Answer: (C)

The drive axle’s job is to transfer engine torque to the wheels while letting them spin at different speeds when the vehicle turns. In a turn, the wheels on the inside travel a shorter distance than the outside wheels, so they must rotate at different rates. A fixed axle would force the wheels to rotate at the same speed, causing tire scrub and poor handling. The differential inside the drive axle accommodates these speed differences while delivering power to both wheels. The other options describe suspension or body dynamics, which are not the drive axle’s primary function.