Ways to Detect Transfer Case Failure in a Volvo
Volvos possess exceptional power while still being known for their durability, reliability, and comfort. It is important to have your vehicle regularly serviced and maintenanced, as well as to learn and understand what problems your vehicle may be susceptible to. A common problem that most Volvos face is transfer case failure in their all-wheel drive models. Transfer case failure has easy to notice signs and needs to be fixed quickly, because it affects your vehicle’s drivability.
The transfer case is an important component within the drivetrain of all-wheel drive/ four-wheel drive vehicles. It is responsible for transferring the energy from the transmission to both axles so all four wheels are receiving energy rather than two on the front axle in standard vehicles. If your vehicle’s transfer case fails, your vehicle will have a major decrease in performance and drivability.
Signs of Transfer Case Failure
If your vehicle is experiencing transfer case failure, it will severely impact your vehicle’s performance. Many vehicles only receive power to the front two wheels to spin in order to gain traction. This traction causes movement. In your Volvo 4×4, it receives power to all four wheels, but if the transfer case is malfunctioning, this will no longer be distributed evenly to all four wheels.
The signs of transfer case failure you want to be able to recognize include:
- Transfer Case Fluid Leaking From Engine: Similar to transmission fluid, transfer case fluid is responsible for lubricating some of the more internal components of the engine. If the transfer case fluid leaks, you will notice fluid under your vehicle, where the engine sits.
- Difficulty Shifting Gears: Your vehicle’s gears might be shifting roughly, causing your car to jerk when you’re shifting gears. Your vehicle might also have trouble staying in gear, meaning it keeps slipping out of the gear you choose into another gear.
- Vehicle Randomly Shifts In and Out of Four Wheel Drive: Your vehicle might automatically go into four wheel drive or you may manually put it in four wheel drive. When the transfer case fails, the vehicle might shift in and out of four wheel drive at random times.
- Grinding Noise Coming From Engine: If there is a leak, the engine will make grinding noises if not properly lubricated with transmission fluid and transfer case fluid.
Causes of Transfer Case Failure
While most of the causes of transfer case failure can be prevented with regular auto service and inspection, you might also want to be aware of what driving habits you have developed. The following are causes for transfer case failure:
- High Mileage: All vehicles are liable to have general wear and tear overtime. If your vehicle is older and has reached a high mileage, then it is more likely to experience transfer case failure. The best way to prevent transfer case failure from happening is to regularly have proper maintenance and inspections on your vehicle, so that experienced automotive technicians can replace any deteriorating parts before they affect your vehicle’s drivability.
- Damaged or Broken Output Shaft Seal: Located on the transfer case, the output shaft seal keeps the transfer case fluid from leaking. If broken or damaged, then the seal will fail and the fluid will leak out.
- Bad Driving Habits: Frequent speeding and habitual use of all-wheel drive on smooth, paved roads and highways can confuse your vehicle’s drivetrain system. This can end up causing the transfer case to fail to engage over time.
Munich West for Your Volvo
As a top European auto repair and service provider for Decatur and Atlanta, GA, our expert automotive technicians at Munich West offer 
affordable, dealership-level quality service, which is backed by our 2-years/24,000 miles warranty.
We are experienced in servicing Volvos and know what problems to look for in order to keep you and your family safe while driving. While we are located in Decatur, GA, we offer shuttle services and towing services, so we can provide the best service possible to customers who might be in Atlanta, Avondale Estates, Buckhead, Lilburn, Stone Mountain, or Tucker, GA.
If your Volvo is in need of regular service and maintenance, or if it is showing signs of transfer case failure, bring your vehicle to Munich West. We will help you maintain your vehicle’s quality performance and condition. Call us today.
