Locate the
filler plug
on the side of the transfer case. Clean the filler plug and the area around it using a shop rag; this avoids contaminating the new transfer case fluid. Using a wrench or ratchet and socket, remove the filler plug. Add the new fluid to the case using a small funnel.
How do I add fluid to my transfer case?
Locate the filler plug on the side of the transfer case. Clean the filler plug and the area around it using a shop rag; this avoids contaminating the new transfer case fluid. Using a wrench or ratchet and socket, remove the filler plug. Add the new fluid to
the case using a small funnel
.
What happens if transfer case is low on fluid?
Difficulty changing gears – Low or dirty transfer case fluid can affect your transmission’s ability to shift gears. It can also result in
your car unexpectedly falling out of four-wheel drive
. … This will create loud grinding noises which may become louder when four-wheel drive is engaged.
Do you have to put fluid in a transfer case?
The transfer case is always working, whether you use the four-wheel drive on your vehicle or not. Your transfer case fluid level and condition should be inspected every time you get an oil change. Transfer cases may be filled with
gear oil, automatic transmission fluid (ATF), or specialty lubricants
.
How do you check transfer case fluid?
Locate the oil fill plug on the transfer case. Remove the top oil fill plug.
Using a flashlight
, check for oil at the fill plug hole. When full, the oil should be just below the top hole.
When should I replace my transfer case fluid?
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.
Can you still 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 you know if your transfer case is low on fluid?
If you hear grinding, growling, or humming noises that change with your vehicle speed
, it may be coming from the transfer case. This could indicate a low fluid level or some mechanical problem such as bad bearings, loose chains or damaged gears.
What type of fluid goes in a transfer case?
Most transfer cases are filled with
an automatic transmission fluid
, which is usually red in colour. Others use a thicker gear oil, and some use a specialized fluid that is specifically made just for that transfer case.
Is transfer case fluid and transmission fluid the same?
Most transfer cases are filled with an
automatic transmission fluid
, which is usually red in colour. Others use a thicker gear oil, and some use a specialized fluid that is specifically made just for that transfer case.
What kind of noise does a bad transfer case make?
If you hear a grinding, growling, or humming noise that changes with vehicle speed, it might be coming from the transfer case. The root cause could be low fluid level or a mechanical problem, such as a loose chain, bad bearings, or damaged gears.
How serious is a transfer case leak?
If the seals leak,
fluid escapes and cannot properly lubricate the internal components of the transfer case
. With time and use the parts inside will wear out and overheat. This can render the transfer case useless and the vehicle will no longer be able to shift into four-wheel drive.
How much does it cost to replace transfer case fluid?
Changing the transfer case fluid costs form
$75 to $160
in a repair shop. The transfer case should also be checked regularly for leaks. Leaks should be repaired as soon as possible.
Why would a transfer case need to be replaced?
In other cases, the drive shaft doesn’t turn whatsoever until a switch or selector handle engages the driveshaft. Even then, it may or may not have auto-locking hubs. Inevitably, the transfer case must be replaced
because the vehicle will be inoperative, influenced by exactly what systems are failing
.
How much does it cost to fix a transfer case leak?
Labor costs are estimated between $159 and $200 while parts are priced at $49
. 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. This range is an average across all vehicles on the road.
What happens if your transfer case goes out while driving?
If
the seals leak
, fluid escapes and is no longer able to properly lubricate the interior components of the transfer case. Eventually the parts inside will wear out and overheat. If this happens, the transfer case will be rendered useless and the four-wheel drive operation will not work.
