The G8 rides on GM's Zeta platform with independent rear suspension, and its differential is a self contained aluminum cased unit: precision cut ring and pinion gears, side bearings, and on V8 cars a limited slip mechanism that shares torque between the rear wheels. The aluminum housing with cooling fins sheds heat under hard use, which is part of why these diffs hold up behind 360 plus horsepower. The unit splits torque to the rear wheels while letting them turn at different speeds through corners, so its health shows up directly in traction, noise, and how the car puts power down.
Rear end whine that rises with road speed (worn ring and pinion mesh or bearings), clunk on throttle transitions (internal lash or worn limited slip components), fluid leaks from seals and the case, and one wheel fire from a worn limited slip on the V8 cars are the classic triggers. Builders also buy these diffs outright, since the factory LSD behind the GT and GXP is a proven foundation for street performance.
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| INCLUDED | The differential assembly: case, ring and pinion, internals, and input flange as removed from the donor. |
| NOT INCLUDED | Rear axle shafts, driveshaft, mounting bushings unless attached, gear oil, and seals we recommend refreshing at installation. |
| Tools You Need | Transmission jack, standard metric tools, torque wrench, seal driver, and correct specification gear oil with limited slip additive where required. |
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Pontiac G8 (base, V6) | 2008 to 2009, ratio and diff type matched at order |
| Pontiac G8 GT (6.0L V8) | 2008 to 2009, limited slip application |
| Pontiac G8 GXP (6.2L LS3) | 2009, limited slip application, ratio confirmed |
| Zeta Platform Relatives | Chevrolet SS, Caprice PPV, and Holden Commodore VE share the platform; interchange confirmed strictly by part number |
The reference donor is a 2008 G8. Ratio and trim are the deciding variables, so send your VIN and we run the match before shipping.
Call (240) 301-0095 with your VIN and trim. We decode your factory gear ratio and differential type, confirm this unit matches, and advise on seals and fluid so the install is one clean pass.
This is a used OEM differential, inspected before shipping:
| Component | Rear differential assembly, limited slip per listing |
|---|---|
| Housing | Cast aluminum with integrated cooling fins |
| Input Flange | Standard driveshaft bolt pattern |
| Axle Compatibility | Standard G8 CV rear axle shafts |
| Application | Pontiac G8 2008 to 2009, reference donor 2008 |
| Weight | ~65 to 80 lbs |
| Sku | vaz630 |
| Price | $400.00 |
To file a claim, contact us within 15 days of delivery at (240) 301-0095 or support@vazautosolutions.com.