Transfer Case Repair & Rebuild

If you have a four-wheel drive vehicle or a tow truck, which needs a power output, you are likely familiar about what a transfer case is. A transfer case directly mounts behind the transmission, to divert torque from the transmission to the vehicle’s other systems.

What Is a Transfer Case?

The transfer case in a four-wheel drive vehicle redirects torque to the rear and front axles, to enable the four wheels to drive your vehicle. The transfer case, in most vehicles, is the equipment that enables the driver to select two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive mode.

In most vehicles, the transfer case is driven by chain. This is the most viable option as transfer cases that are chain-driven are quieter. If you are into off-road driving, however, you should stick with the gear-driven transfer cases as the gears increase the transfer case’s durability.

The transfer case lets you switch to neutral, 2-wheel drive, 4-wheel drive high, and 4-wheel drive low. The transfer case, when you switch to 2-wheel drive, will divert the power of the engine to the rear wheels.


When switching to 4-wheel drive, the transfer case will divert power to both the front-wheel and rear-wheel axles. Shift to 4-wheel low if you are driving in less than ideal traction conditions. This enables you to run the vehicle at higher RPM at very low speed. This triggers the RPM to boost the tires to help with poor traction conditions.

When shifting to 4-wheel drive high mode, the transfer case will drive – at the same speeds – the front and rear wheels. If you need to extensively drive during snowy conditions, you may need to shift to 4-wheel drive high mode.

Whatever the situation is, the transfer case is vital, and it endures a lot of beating. Like all parts of the vehicle, however, it is subject to wear-and-tear, and would eventually require servicing. As the torque to the vehicle’s wheels must pass through the transfer case, a transfer case issue may be similar to that of a transmission failure. With a busted transfer case, your vehicle may not run at all.

Knowing Transfer Case Problems

If you have problems controlling the electronics or with the transfer case, your all-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle may not function properly. As certain mechanical issues can be similar to those of a malfunctioning transfer case, here are several signs to look out for if you suspect transfer case problems:
  • Squealing or grinding noises when vehicle is moving.
  • Noises that occur only from the vehicle’s front area when it is cold out.
  • Stuck in four-wheel or two-wheel only, and not being able to switch.
  • You hear noises when driving at certain speeds or when shifting gears.
  • Your vehicle chatters upon turning or slips when in motion.

Transfer Case Servicing and Repairs

The transfer case should be kept in tip-top shape for the vehicle to function properly. The transfer case is also periodically serviced by draining old fluid, replacing it with new fluid. Standard maintenance also entails checking for damage and leaks.

Transfer case problems may be more internal, which warrants the removal and repairing of the transfer case. When you bring your vehicle to the repair shop, the mechanics will skillfully diagnose your transfer case’s issues, and they can provide professional opinions regarding any necessary repairs.

If you are in the Phoenix, Arizona area, and if you need transfer case repair, call on Super Discount Transmissions – the authority in auto repair.

Not yet convinced? For every repair we do, we also provide full service warranty so, again, don’t worry, Super Discount Transmissions has you covered.

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