Transfer case needs replacing

[dg0503]

So my 2009 4Runner (4wd, V6) would not go into 4Lo. I took it into the dealer and as expected, the actuator needed to be replaced. I was not surprised and thankfully I purchased an extended, comprehensive warrenty when I bought the vehicle a few months ago. The dealer just called and said that the transfer case also needs to be replaced. There are metal shavings in the casing. The truck has less than 70000 miles on it. Anyone else have a similar situation or knows what may have caused this? Again, thankfully this will also be covered by the warrenty, but I am concerned about other issues coming up. Should I be?? Thanks.

 

[duffdog]

oil starvation, failing to change the transfer case oil when water entered the case. That's about all I can think of with that low of mileage. It could also be a defective bearing/part inside the case that is in no way your fault.

 

[CookieRoe]

When I first replaced the fluid in TC, I did see very small metal shavings, but didn't think much of it. Also, don't forget to use it (engage it) every month and for at least 10 miles, drive to keep things lubed up and working! Actuator failures are starting to become common as our rigs age (expected), so it doesn't surprise me when i see a member complain of a "new to them" 4Runner and run into TC problems.

1) change the fluid every 60K miles
2) Use it at least once a month (4hi, 4lo, lock the diffs)
3) Drive in 4hi at least 10 miles

Good luck with your new TC!

 

[Morphyne]

Maybe if someone drove on dry pavement with lots of twists and turns with it engaged for an extended period of time?

 

[dg0503]

Thanks for the replies!! Anything to be careful of with the new TC? About to head out on a road trip, pulling a pop up camper.

 

[Morphyne]

shouldn't need TC pulling a camper unless get into the muck real bad. if that, then give it hell.