Off-roaders know that four-wheel drive is a must-have.
Unlike two-wheel drives, vehicles equipped with 4WD (or all-wheel steering) can send power from their engine wherever they see fit – front or rear wheels it doesn’t matter because of this feature.
Four-wheel drive is an important feature for any vehicle, but it’s even more crucial when you don’t know what type of terrain to expect.
If your car doesn’t have a four-wheeler, then be sure that there will always be some sort of indicator light on the dashboard so drivers can keep track at all times as well!
However, one of the most common spoilers in the whole system is the Service 4 WD system.
It doesn’t indicate that your vehicle needs routine maintenance.
The message indicates an issue with the 4 WD systems and, therefore, should be properly diagnosed and repaired quickly.
What is the meaning of an indicator light labeled Service 4WD?
When the “Service 4WD” light comes on, that means there is a problem with your four wheels drive system.
It is important to fix this as soon as possible to avoid getting a loss of traction in snow or mud beforehand.
How to reset the service light on a 4WD?
It is pretty straightforward to do so. Just follow some simple steps.
- Turn the ignition on but do not start
- Push the gas pedal three times
- The service 4WD light will most likely switch on the 4WD on the dashboard
- If the lights are still acting funny, then it is possible the time for switch replacement
What is the cost for service 4WD?
On average, a rebuilt transfer case costs depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
The price for labor to install it is in addition to what’s offered with this type of product as well, typically running between 400-800 dollars.
What is included in a 4×4 service?
The Four-wheel drive vehicles demand rugged performance from their transmission.
Especially when used for off-road driving or towing.
The usual 4×4 services include
Draining and refilling the Transfer Case with fresh fluid
To go further than ever before
Drain and fill both differentials together and safeguard your journey
(If it’s snowy outside)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1.) How to know if your 4X4 switch is bad?
The easiest way to tell this particular thing is to just look at the switch and look for a yellow blinking light in 4 WD.
One other thing could be a red lamp lit on in the neutral position
The switch going bad is one of the most common issues. Keep a good switch in the dash pocket and two at home.
Q2.) How to know whether the transfer case module is bad?
It’s easier than we think, as the case module has moving parts in it.
- The first symptom is grinding sounds
- When one presses the button that engages or disengages the 4WD and hears a grinding sound
- Usually, the problem is definite when sound comes after the module changes the mode
Q3.) How to reset the transfer case module?
Well, there are many ways of doing this.
This might not be the simplest, but cheapest among all
Clearing the codes and resetting the computer is an essential thing.
- Pull the 5 amp TCCM fuse located right at the bottom of the fuse box
- Wait for half an hour
- 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, start the vehicle
Q4.) How to unstick the 4WD?
To disengage an already stuck Four-Wheel drive, Check for the manual hubs first.
Make sure they are in free mode.
Put the vehicle into 4-Wheel high mode and then drive forward for few miles.
Stop the vehicle and shift to 2 WD.
Place the vehicle in reverse and drive in reverse for about 15 to 25 feet, and this should solve the problem.
Q5.) Where is the transfer case control module exactly situated?
Well, in most cases, it is right under the driver’s side dashboard to parallel to the steering column.
It is pretty easy for the driver to reach the connectors easily by simply facing them.
Q6.) What is the reason behind 4WD flashing?
Most of the time, a 4 WD starts flashing without any specific reason.
Nothing directly alarming as it simply shows the system working as specified and designed
On certain vehicles which have activated the on-demand feature for 4WD, the light simply shows that the mode is activated.
Q7.) Is it possible to switch back to 4WD while driving?
Experts recommend not use the typical 4L 4WD for highway driving.
As technology evolves, in most vehicles, automation is taking place.
A 4H 4WD can be switched easily, while a 4L 4WD needs are slowing of the vehicle first to a remarkably low speed.
Q8.) Is it possible to drive with a bad transfer case?
Very straightforward answer, do not even think about this.
Driving with a transfer case that has some serious mechanical problem and you could destroy it beyond any repair.
Even worse, it can permanently damage your transmission, driveshaft, and axles in the process.
Q9.) What is the procedure to check the transfer of case fluid?
Start by locating the oil fill plug on the transfer case.
Then, remove the top oil leveler plug.
Check the oil level at fill plug hole by using a flashlight
A good level is an oil just below the top hole
Q10.) What can be the contradictions if the transfer case runs low on fluid?
The transfer case is a crucial part of your car’s power plant that helps direct engine torque from one wheel to another.
If you lack enough fluid in the system, it can overheat and seize up completely.
This will make operating two- or four-wheel drive systems very difficult.
Q11.) What is the ideal time after which we should change transfer case oil?
It’s a good idea for drivers to change the transfer case fluid periodically
Like every 30 000 miles. Because if you don’t, your truck might burn up!
Q12.) What is the cost to service a transfer case?
It is critical to know about the prices involved in getting your vehicle fixed.
Usual costings are between $60 and $92, and labor costs come anywhere between $44 and $56.
Parts are fairly priced between $16 and $36
Q13.) What fluid is there in the transfer case?
The transfer case is primarily synthetic or traditional gear oil.
Because this keeps on changing from vehicle to vehicle.
The main purpose of oil is to remove heat and friction by lubricating so that it runs cool and smooth.
Q14.) Does it cost more to service the 4WD?
Yes, one of the major disadvantages of using 4WD is its added cost which includes the following.
Purchase cost
Maintenance
Fuel
Extra Equipment because that adds complexity and weight and increases the initial market values.
Q15.) Does 4 WD Use more gas?
Yes, true. 4WD offers inferior mileage to their 2WD counterparts.
The engine has to generate more power due to more weight in four-wheel-drives
This decreases the gas mileage
Q16.) What is the difference between All Wheel Drive (AWD) and 4WD?
Generally speaking, an all-wheel-drive has a center differential that distributes the torque to the engine.
A 4 wheel drive uses a transfer case that functions as a typically locked differential.
Q17.) Can you use four-wheel drives in an All-Wheel Drive?
Yes, it is possible.
All-wheel drive vehicles because as such are not designed for any off-road experience.
However, it is also true that they are capable of doing so.
This is also true if your car has enough ground clearance.
Q18.) What are some good 4WD for This Year?
Toyota Rav 4, Subaru Forester, Toyota Highlander, Honda CR-V
Ford Explorer, Jeep Wrangler, Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Compass are some of the nice options to consider
The Final Verdict
Four-wheel drive is great for those unexpected moments as and when you need the extra traction, but four-wheel drives have their drawbacks.
If your truck doesn’t disengage, it could be an issue with its automatic locking mechanism.
Dirt getting straight into the switch mechanisms can also cause some issues with the 4WD.
Four-wheel drive problems are typically in two forms, not working or will not disengage.
Unfortunately, the ‘not working’ problem usually happens at an inconvenient time when you need to have that extra traction.
4×4 provides for your vehicle due to its off-road capabilities and ability to navigate rugged terrain more efficiently than 2WD vehicles can on their own without getting stuck too often
One of the common issues is less mileage to 2WD counterparts as well due to heavy parts in 4WD.
Or excessive tire wears indicative signifying this might just need maintenance, so take care next time before thinking about buying another set of wheels.
It is important to take care of all the errors and ask for professional help from a certified service center.
Certain things can be done all by yourself, and there is nothing wrong with doing them.
Be knowledgeable, be safe
Thanks for reading