If you own an SUV or off-road vehicle, you probably know how important the transfer case is, which acts as the center of your car’s drivetrain. Many modern vehicles use electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer cases, which allow you to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive with the touch of a button. However, these systems are susceptible and are often expensive to fix if they break down, which can happen if you abuse your car or neglect routine maintenance. Here are some signs that your transfer case might be failing and what you can do about it.
What Is a Transfer Case
Cars with four-wheel or all-wheel drive will utilize a transfer case to change from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive mode. In addition, off-road vehicles equipped with four-wheel drive will have a switch or level that allows the driver to select the mode of operation between two or four-wheel drive. Cars with all-wheel drive will not have a switch or lever as the vehicle will automatically adjust the power to the individual wheels based on driving conditions.
Do Transfer Cases Require Special Maintenance?
Transfer cases typically require the same maintenance as your transmission. Typically checking the fluid levels and changing fluid according to manufacturer recommendations is necessary to maintain the transfer case. In addition, your mechanic may inspect the transfer case and linkage to detect potential issues.
What Are the Symptoms of a Failing Transfer Case?
If the transfer case fails, you may have trouble shifting gears or switching to four-wheel drive mode. In addition, you may notice vibrations while driving, strange whining noises, or fluid puddles on the ground indicating a fluid leak. In the case of leaking fluid, you may also notice a burning smell which is old transfer case fluid that is overheating. These issues must be diagnosed and fixed by a mechanic as soon as they are detected.
While transfer case problems are relatively rare on modern vehicles, they can occasionally happen. If you have a car equipped with a transfer case, you must know what to look for if it is starting to fail. As with many other car problems, early detection and repair is the key to prolonging the life of the car’s transfer case.
If you notice signs your car’s transfer case is failing, see your trusted mechanic get them diagnosed and repaired.