How this system works:
In four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles, a transfer case is either connected directly to the back of the transmission, or by a small driveshaft further back in the vehicle. When activated, the transfer case takes power from the engine to the back wheels. Depending on the kind of vehicle, power may go to the rear wheels on a full-time or part-time basis. All-wheel drive systems are typically on all of the time while a four-wheel drive system are activated by either pressing a button in the vehicle or by manipulating a selector lever, typically located near the transmission hump on the floor. In both systems, transfer case fluid keeps the internal parts of the transfer case lubricated. Over time, transfer case fluid will become dirty and break down. When transfer case fluid breaks down you may notice shuddering from the vehicle while turning or a whining noise from the gears in the transfer case.
Common reasons for this to happen:
- Time: Over time, transfer case fluid will break down and become dirty. Dirty transfer case fluid may cause moving parts in the transfer case to have more difficulty moving, which may cause them to fail.
- Improper Filling: If the transfer case is not properly filled with transfer case fluid, it may break down more quickly, have difficulty dissipating heat, and keeping parts lubricated.
What to expect:
A top-rated mobile mechanic will come to your home or office and determine whether or not your transfer case fluid needs to be replaced. If it does, he or she will then provide a detailed inspection report outlining the reason the fluid needed to be replaced and the cost of any repairs that may need to be made.
How it’s done:
A mechanic will first have your vehicle idle for a few minutes to warm the fluid as warm fluid will drain easier. The mechanic will then drain the old transfer case fluid through the drain plug. The drain plug on most transfer cases is magnetic and picks up metal shavings that otherwise might potentially damage components in the transfer case. The mechanic should clean the drain plug before replacing it. The mechanic will then remove the fill plug and add new fluid. The mechanic should also double-check the amount of fluid, he or she puts in the transfer case, ensuring that it was done properly. A vehicle that is under-lubricated may not dissipate heat or protect critical components as well as a vehicle that is properly lubricated. When the transfer case is full, the mechanic will replace the fill plug and check for any leaks.
How important is this service?
By choosing to not replace your transfer case fluid, you may compromise critical and expensive components inside the transfer case. Because the transfer case is a sealed unit, it is very important that the transfer fluid is filled properly so that heat is appropriately dissipated and components to not suffer from unneeded friction. Repairing a differential can be very expensive, so in order to preserve these components, you should have you transfer case fluid replaced at the correct intervals. Doing so could potentially save you a lot of money down the road.
