How Do I Know If My Transfer Case Shift Motor Is Bad?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Strange noises: You may hear one or more odd sounds coming from the transfer case, or from under your vehicle. These can include

grinding, chattering or clicking

. Any of these can indicate a bad transfer case.

What does the transfer case shift motor do?

Just what does the transfer case shift motor do? Whether your 4WD is activated by pressing a button on the dashboard, or

you drive a vehicle that automatically shifts to 4-wheel-drive only when sensors indicate it’s needed for better traction

, it’s the transfer case shift motor that makes it happen.

How do you test a transfer case motor?

Switch on the ignition and observe the transfer case shift control indicators, you should notice a flash. You also need to diagnose some system circuits if you do not notice any flash. Check for battery and ignition voltage. Check the transfer case shift control switch connector and the ground

circuit for

earth.

Does transfer case affect shifting?

A common symptom of a bad transfer case is

having trouble shifting between gear ranges

. Although this issue could be caused by thing like a low fluid level or damaged linkage, it typically indicates an internal transfer case failure.

What are the symptoms of a bad transfer case motor?

  • Gear Shifting Issues. …
  • Difficulty Staying in 4WD. …
  • 4WD Will Not Engage/Disengage. …
  • Puddle Formation Directly Under the Transfer Case’s Location. …
  • Weird Grinding, Growling or Humming Noises. …
  • 4WD Warning Light Illuminates. …
  • 4WD Transfer Case.

Is it bad to drive with a 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 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 4×4 lights to blink, and then turn off. Repeat 5 times, and then start the truck.

Can you fix a transfer case motor?

Can you fix a transfer case motor? This all-important part you your 4-wheel-drive system is one of the first parts activated in the sequence of events that takes place when shifting to 4-wheel-drive. But the good news is, a transfer case shift motor isn’t terribly expensive and is fairly easy to replace.

Can you drive a car 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. … Hence, without a transfer case, a traditional 4WD vehicle cannot drive.

How often do transfer cases need to be replaced?

If the fluid runs low or becomes contaminated, it can lead to failure of the differential. To avoid this issue, it is recommended that the transfer case fluid be changed periodically, normally

every 30,000 miles

, especially in vehicles that tow or use four-wheel drive often.

What happens when transfer case goes bad?

When your transfer case goes bad,

your car might jump in and out of 4-wheel drive on its own

. This indicates an inability to stay in a drive mode which can damage the transfer case, other systems on the vehicle, or cause an unsafe driving situation.

How much does it cost to fix a transfer case?

Transfer Case Replacement Cost – RepairPal Estimate. Labor costs are

estimated between $438 and $552

while parts are priced at $2,063. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Does a transfer case do anything in 2WD?

The transfer case is

located between the transmission and front and rear differentials via the driveshafts

, creating a two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive vehicle. … When the transfer case engages the front shaft, which feeds power to the front wheels, the vehicle then becomes a four-wheel drive.

Is it hard to replace a transfer case?

Replacing

the transfer case will take a couple of hours

, and it’s a heavy part. It’s important to go in knowing exactly what to do and how to do it right. We have some tips for you: To remove the driveshafts, you may want box end wrenches.

What causes transfer case failure?

Commonly, a transfer case will fail due to

a low fluid level caused by leaks, a lack of maintenance or regular wear and tear

. It’s important to address fluid leaks right away to prevent internal transfer case damage. Changing the transfer case fluid on a regular basis is also important.

Can you drive in 2WD with a bad transfer case?


Yes, you can drive with a broken transfer case

. However, we’re against the idea of operating a car with a damaged transfer case. It is not safe, and you might cause further damage to the vehicle. You can, however, still drive in 2WD.

Juan Martinez
Author
Juan Martinez
Juan Martinez is a journalism professor and experienced writer. With a passion for communication and education, Juan has taught students from all over the world. He is an expert in language and writing, and has written for various blogs and magazines.