Signs of a Bad Transfer Case

If your car has a transfer case, here are some common signs you may notice if your transfer

case has gone bad.

Strange Sounds:

Unusual sounds and noises such as squeaking, grinding, clicking, humming are sounds you do

not want to hear from your transfer case. Do not ignore them because unusual sounds are

usually a sign of bigger trouble to come. Worn-out components of the transfer case tend to

make strange sounds and could indicate some mechanical problems such as bad bearings,

damaged gears, loose chains, or low fluid level.

Struggles to Shift Gears:

Having trouble shifting between gear ranges is a common symptom of a bad transfer case.

Fluid may be leaking from the transfer case making shifting gears more difficult in your vehicle. The loss of fluid pressure results in shifting into higher or lower gears harder. Fluid that is completely worn out can also cause slippage between the gears.

Disengages or Engages its Four-Wheel Drive:

Difficulty staying in four-wheel drive is another symptom of a bad transfer case. There could be

many reasons why a four-wheel drive system won’t engage or disengage. It could be the result of a faulty shift mechanism on the front axle, or an electrical fault in the control system. Worn-out parts in the transfer case or a broken seal allowing fluid to leak could be the cause of the system engaging and disengaging.

Fluid Leak Under Transfer Case:

If you notice a fluid leak on the ground under your transfer case call your mechanics as soon as you can to see whether it is safe to drive. When it comes to the transfer case having a leak it could point to a bad seal or an issue locked within the case itself. The transfer case has its own fluid and is a self-contained unit. If your car is leaving pools of a greasy fluid behind after you drive away, its most likely coming from the transfer case.

Burning Smell:

A burning smell can come from multiple sources however if you trace it to the transfer case it could point to low fluid levels. Low fluids inside the transfer case would cause a high amount of friction which in return would result in a burning smell.

Call Eagle Transmission in Mesquite today for any questions you may have concerning your

transfer case. We are here to get you back on the road again. We service Dall and Surrounding areas like Forney, Seagoville, Rockwall, Rowlett and more.