Factors Causing Infiniti Transfer Case Failure

Are you facing issues with complex components like the transfer case in your Infiniti? The transfer case is an essential part of your vehicle that works like the control center to manage power from the engine and decide whether to send it to the front wheels, the back wheels, or both. This decision-making is crucial for maintaining traction, especially on slippery roads or rough terrain.

The transfer case sits between the transmission (which changes the gears) and the axles (the rods connecting the wheels). When you drive normally on the highway, it might send power mainly to one set of wheels to save fuel. But if you’re driving over a muddy hill or a snowy road, it can distribute power to all wheels, giving you better grip and control. Over time, this component can encounter problems, therefore you need to understand the common reasons behind its failure to prevent the issue.

What Causes Failure In The Transfer Case

• Lack of Maintenance: Your transfer case needs regular check-ups and fluid changes, just like you need regular health check-ups. Over time, the fluid inside the transfer case can break down. When this happens, it’s not as effective at reducing friction or cooling the internal parts, leading to increased wear and potential damage. Imagine running a machine constantly without ever oiling it; eventually, it’s going to grind to a halt.
• Fluid Leakage: The transfer case is sealed to keep its fluid inside, but those seals and gaskets aren’t invincible. They can wear out or get damaged, causing leaks. If too much fluid leaks out, the internal parts of the transfer case won’t get enough lubrication, making it harder for them to move smoothly against each other. It’s somewhat like trying to slide down a dry slide; without enough lubrication, you’re going to get stuck.
• Damaged Components: Inside your transfer case are gears and bearings that see a lot of action. Over time and with heavy use, these components can wear down or even break. If they’re not in good shape, they can’t do their job correctly, leading to failure.
• Improper Use: Using your Infiniti for heavy-duty activities it wasn’t designed for, like intense off-roading, can strain the transfer case beyond its limits. This is like using a small kitchen knife to chop firewood; it’s simply not the right tool for the job, and you’ll likely end up breaking it.
• Aftermarket Modifications: Modifying your vehicle with aftermarket parts, such as larger tires, without adjusting the transfer case to handle these changes, puts extra pressure on the system. The transfer case was designed to work with your vehicle’s original specifications. Changing those without making necessary adjustments will lead to its failure.
• Overloading: Your Infiniti has specific limits on how much weight it can carry and tow safely. When you exceed these limits, the extra weight strains the transfer case, causing it to work much harder than it’s supposed to. This extra work generates more heat and wears out the internal parts faster than normal, leading to possible transfer case failure. It’s essential to stick to the recommended weight capacities to keep the system running smoothly.
• Driving Habits: The way you drive can also affect the transfer case. If you’re always in a rush, accelerating quickly, taking turns at high speeds, or driving on rough terrains more than your car is designed for, you’re putting a lot of stress on the transfer case. It’s like constantly running at full speed without ever taking a break; you’ll wear yourself out much faster. These habits can cause the transfer case to work overtime, leading to faster wear, overheating, and potentially, failure.

Get Quality Repairs From Our Professional Mechanics

Since 1992, Franklin Automotive has been the go-to spot for car owners in Birmingham, AL, and we’re proud of the top-notch service we’ve provided all these years. Our expert mechanics are dedicated to maintaining our excellent reputation by offering quick and dependable fixes for any problem your Infiniti might have. We aim to make every visit exceed your expectations.

Living in Hoover, Homewood, Vestavia, Mountain Brook, Pelham, Trussville, or anywhere around Birmingham, AL, and running into tricky problems like transfer case failure? Don’t worry. Our team is ready to give you the expert help you need. Book an appointment with us today.

* Infiniti Q60 Coupe Car image credit goes to: Luca Piccini Basile.