Frequently Asked Questions
When will an out-of-stock differential be back in stock, and what does “on back order” mean?
Most Wavetrac differentials are built to order or supplied in production batches, so an out-of-stock listing doesn’t mean you can’t order it — “on back order” just means your order secures a place in the next production batch rather than you waiting for existing stock to return.
On average we have one shipment per week from the factory to our warehouse. You can be rest assured that when a SKU is available, we will have the items shortly thereafter for despatch.
Check the product page for current status, order to lock in your slot, or sign up for back-in-stock alerts if you’d rather wait. You’ll get updates as it progresses and tracking once it ships.
Lead time varies by application and we’ll confirm a specific estimate before dispatch.
How do I find the right Wavetrac for my car and gearbox?
We run a free fitment check before you order. Just send us:
- Your UK vehicle registration or VIN
- The product you’re looking at
We’ll tell you exactly which differential fits, whether your gearbox is compatible, and what else you’ll need — before you buy, not after it turns up.
How do I identify my BMW differential?
It’s a mix of your differential size, final drive ratio, and whether the ring gear is bolted or welded. Between us we can work out:
- 188K, 188L or 215K differential
- Final drive ratio
- Welded or bolted ring gear
- Whether it needs machining or a BMW conversion kit
Send your reg or VIN and we’ll tell you exactly what your car’s running.
Do I need bearings, shims or an installation kit, and do you sell them separately?
Good practice is to change the interfacing components such as bearings, seals, gaskets and bolts. However, some items are not available, and this depends on your vehicle and application — some installs reuse the original components. Send us your details and we’ll confirm what your build needs.
Will a Wavetrac work with my automatic, DSG, DCT or PDK gearbox, and on AWD vehicles?
Yes. Wavetrac covers a wide range of manual, automatic, DSG, DCT and PDK transmissions, including plenty of AWD applications.
Exact fit depends on your car, gearbox and differential type together, so tell us what you’re running and we’ll confirm the right unit before you order.
Do your prices include VAT, and will I pay customs on EU deliveries?
Yes, we ship worldwide, including the EU, Switzerland, USA, UAE, Malaysia, South Africa, Romania and plenty of other destinations.
Worth knowing:
- UK VAT is not charged on orders delivered outside the UK VAT area.
- Import duty and local taxes on arrival are payable by the receiver, not us.
- Delivery times shift depending on where it’s going.
Full details are on our Shipping Information page.
Can I buy VAT-free as an EU business or non-EU customer?
It depends on where you’re based and what kind of order it is. Export orders often qualify VAT-free, and EU VAT-registered businesses can usually get specific treatment applied too — just ask and we’ll sort a proforma invoice if you need one.
Import duty and local taxes are a separate matter though; that’s down to your destination country, not us.
How much is shipping, how long is delivery, and do you ship worldwide?
We ship to the UK, Europe, USA and most places beyond that too. Cost is worked out at checkout based on where it’s going and how big the item is; delivery time comes down to stock and destination. Tracking lands in your inbox the moment it ships. See our Shipping Information page for more.
How does the built differential or mail-in differential service work?
We offer both ready-built differentials and a mail-in build service for selected applications. The service can include:
- Wavetrac installation
- Ring gear machining where needed
- Bearing and component inspection
- Professional assembly
Turnaround depends on the application and current workshop schedule.
How do I check my order status, and when will it ship?
You’ll get a confirmation the moment you order, then tracking once it’s on its way. If your item’s on back order, we’ll keep you posted as it moves through production rather than leaving you guessing.
What oil should I use in a Wavetrac differential, and how much is required?
Use the oil recommended for your vehicle’s transmission or differential. As a helical ATB differential, Wavetrac doesn’t need the friction-modified oil that clutch-type LSDs use.
We stock Motul diff oil for many applications and can confirm the right spec and quantity for your car.
Is this noise or behaviour normal? (Reverse clunk, one-wheel spin or differential noise)
A few things are completely normal with a Wavetrac. Examples include:
- Light mechanical noise during operation
- One-wheel spin if a wheel becomes completely unloaded
- A small amount of metallic sheen at your first oil change
If you’re getting excessive noise, vibration or anything that feels like abnormal wear, get it inspected rather than waiting it out.
My differential has a problem — how do warranty inspections and repairs work?
Get in touch before sending anything back. We’ll walk you through:
- How the warranty inspection works
- How to send it back
- What info we need from you
- Whether it’s repaired or replaced
Turnaround just depends on what we find once we’ve had a look.
How do I become a Wavetrac dealer or apply for trade pricing?
We welcome trade enquiries from workshops, differential suppliers, performance specialists and distributors. To apply, use our Become a Wavetrac Dealer page and we’ll review your application and get back to you with next steps.