How do I know if my transfer case switch is bad?

What are the signs of a bad transfer case?

Strange noises: You may hear one or more odd sounds coming from the transfer case, or from under your vehicle.
Shifting gears becomes difficult: This can happen with both manual and automatic transmissions that work with transfer cases.

Just so, what are the symptoms of a bad transfer case?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Transfer Case Output Shaft Seal

What is the transfer case output shaft seal? The transfer case output shaft seal is located on the transfer case of four-wheel drive cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Difficulty shifting gears.
Grinding noises coming from underneath the vehicle.
Vehicle jumps in and out of four-wheel drive.

Also Know, what does a transfer case switch do? A transfer case is a part of the drivetrain of four-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive, and other multiple powered axle vehicles. The transfer case transfers power from the transmission to the front and rear axles by means of drive shafts.

Thereof, how do I know if my 4x4 switch is bad?

Difficulty engaging four-wheel drive A faulty switch may require the knob or button to be pressed or jostled several times before the four-wheel drive system comes on, and even then, it may have difficulty staying engaged.

Can you test a transfer case control module?

You have to perform a TCCM self-test to determine whether you need to change this component or not. Turn the ignition switch while observing the transfer case shift control switch indicators. You also have to diagnose the connector of the transfer case shift control switch and the ground circuit for ground.

39 Related Question Answers Found

Can you drive without a transfer case?

Without a transfer case, you will not be able to drive the vehicle since the power is split 50/50 to the front and rear drive shafts and in 4WD or 4H mode. Alternatively 100% of the vehicle power is transferred to the rear drive shaft and differential from the transfer case when 2H mode is selected.

Can you drive with bad transfer case?

Driving your car with a bad transfer case is a bad idea. If you continue to drive with a transfer case that has a serious mechanical problem, you could destroy it beyond the point of repair, and possibly damage your transmission, driveshafts and axles in the process.

How long can you drive with a bad differential?

A rear differential service consists of removing the rear differential cover, cleaning any old fluid from inside the differential case, resealing the cover, and adding clean fluid. After a rear differential fluid change, most vehicles will go 20,000 to 40,000 miles before it's due again.

How much does it cost to fix a transfer case?

The average cost for a transfer case replacement is between $2,655 and $2,755. Labor costs are estimated between $379 and $479 while parts are priced at $2276. Estimate does not include taxes and fees.

How do you fix a transfer case noise?

So if you suspect a noise from the transfer case, replace the fluid with the correct fluid as dictated by the service manual and recheck for the noise. If the noise goes away, call it a win and move on. If not, you might have to replace or rebuild the transfer case.

Why is my service 4wd light on?

When the ignition key is cycled from OFF-RUN-START and is released back to the RUN position after the vehicle starts, the 4WD warning light should illuminate for 1 to 2 seconds and then go out. If it stays on, or the "Service 4WD System" message is displayed, there is a problem with the 4WD system.

How do I reset my transfer case control module?

Cheap way - To clear the codes and reset the computer, pull the 5 amp TCCM fuse, located at the bottom of the fuse box. Wait at least a half hour, and then replace the fuse. Turn the ignition key to run, wait for the 4x4 lights to blink, and then turn off. Repeat 5 times, and then start the truck.

How do you test a 4 wheel drive switch?

How to Test a Four-wheel Drive

Locate the four-wheel drive high button on the dash.
Drive the vehicle as normal and press the button or shift into 4Hi.
Turn the vehicle to the left and right while moving.
Locate the four-wheel drive low button on the dash or shifter.
Stop the vehicle.
Engage 4Lo by pressing the button or shifting.

How do you reset 4wd light?

To reset the Change Oil light turn the ignition on but do not start and then push the gas pedal 3 times. The Service 4WD light is most likely the 4WD switch on the dashboard. If the lights are acting funny then the switch needs to be replaced. There is a quick fix for it though.

How much does it cost to fix 4 wheel drive?

On average, a remanufactured transfer case costs depending on the make and model of your vehicle. The cost of labor to install it is in addition to the price of the unit and will typically run between $400 and $800.

What is a 4x4 actuator?

A four-wheel drive actuator is a component of your four-wheel drive (4WD) system that automatically locks the hubs. When you engage your four-wheel drive, the transfer case shifts to also drive the front wheels.

What happens if transfer case is low on fluid?

If the fluid is low the transfer case can overheat, and cause parts to seize and not actuate properly between two- and four-wheel drive modes.

How does the front axle actuator work?

The Axle Actuator is a device which activates the front axle when the driver switches from 2 wheel drive to 4 wheel drive. When the switch is turned on, the control module turns on an air-pump which is mounted near the front of the car.

Why is my four wheel drive light flashing?

A lot of the time, a flashing 4WD light is no reason to be alarmed, because it simply means that the system is working as designed. On vehicles where four-wheel drive is only activated on demand — that is to say, when traction conditions require it — this light shows up to tell you that it's been activated.

Do 2wd vehicles have a transfer case?

Without a transfer case, your part-time 4WD vehicle would be a 2WD vehicle. The transfer case (also called the T-case) is what splits power from the engine 50/50 to both the rear and front axles by way of the front and rear drive shafts. The transfer usually sits right behind the transmission in your drivetrain.

How do you manually shift a transfer case?

How To Manually Shift the Transfer Case

Start car and engage shift lever into the mode you will be manually shifting your car into.
Shut off car.
With your wrench in hand get under the driver's side of the car.
Identify the transfer case selector lever (see picture below).
At the bottom of the lever there is a bolt head.

How often should you change transfer case fluid?

The transfer case fluid should be changed periodically, normally every 30,000 miles, especially in vehicles that tow or use four-wheel-drive often. If the transfer case fluid becomes contaminated or runs low, it can lead to the transfer case burning up.