Simple Answers from Car Medics for Kingston: Transfer Case Service

Question:
I was told I need to have my transfer case serviced. What is that?

Car Medics Answer:
On a four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle, power needs to be transferred to both the front and rear axles. The transfer case is the mechanism that makes that happen. There are many drivetrain configurations out there, so we’ll just talk in generalities.

Trucks and larger SUV’s are often primarily rear-wheel-drive. When the driver (or the vehicle’s computer) selects 4WD, the transfer case also sends power to the front axle. The transfer case may also contain an additional gear set for off-roading.

The transfer case is lubricated and cooled by special gear oil. Over time, the oil gets contaminated and needs to be changed, just like your engine oil and transmission fluid. Your automobile manufacturer will have a schedule and your understanding Car Medics team can help.

Now many vehicles around Kingston have all-wheel-drive (AWD). AWD vehicles are often based on a front-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive vehicle with the addition of a center differential that sends power to the rear wheels when needed. This center differential, like the transfer case, has a vital service schedule for replacing contaminated lubricant. The work of transfer cases and differentials is demanding and proper maintenance should not be neglected by Kingston car owners.

Knowing the service schedule for your transfer case and differentials will help keep your vehicle running well and avoid premature wear.

Give us a call if you have any questions:

Car Medics
37 Rigney St
Kingston, ON K7K 6Z3
613-547-8473

or

Car Medics
1985 Perth Rd.
Glenburnie, ON K0H 1S0
613-546-6766