There are many factors that determine a Volvo’s performance on the road. One of the essential components for smooth movement, though highly overlooked, is the transfer case. The transfer case in your Volvo helps to distribute power from the transmission to the front and rear axles.

If your Volvo is a 4WD (four-wheel drive), then it needs the transfer case to distribute power for the rear wheels for better drivability and improved traction. However, this transfer case can fail for various reasons and when this happens, it puts your car at a risk on the road.

List of Likely Causes of Transfer Case Failure in Volvo

• Poor Maintenance: Many drivers do not know this, but like every other car component, the transfer case also requires regular maintenance. Lack of maintenance can cause wear and damage to the transfer case. Hence, maintenance actions like frequent inspections, fluid checks, and fluid changes can help to keep your car in great shape.
• Driving Habits: Poor driving habits can also be the reason for a transfer case failure in a car. If, as a driver, you frequently hit curbs or drive aggressively through rough road surfaces, the resultant effect will be damage to your car’s transfer strain caused by excessive stress.

Also, if you frequently switch your Volvo between 2WD and 4WD at high speed and on dry pavement (where the use of the 4WD is not necessary), you put too much stress on the transfer case and this can lead to its damage and thus, its failure.

The Warning Signs of a Transfer Case Problem

• Unusual Noises: One of the signs that points to a transfer case failure in a car is weird sounds. If you hear grinding or clunking sounds especially when switching between 2WD and 4WD, there may have been some damage to the internal parts of the transfer case.
• Poor Traction in 4WD: The main function of the transfer case in your car is to improve vehicle traction in off-road conditions. However, if you notice that even when you engage the 4WD, your car still struggles to maintain traction, it is a clear indication that the transfer case is not working properly.
• Fluid Leaks: Another sign that helps you identify faults in your car’s transfer case is leaking fluid. The transfer case, like other components of the drivetrain and transmission system, relies on fluid for lubrication. If you then notice oil or fluid leaks from your car’s transmission area, it could signal that there is a problem with the transfer case.

Tips for Handling Transfer Case Failures in Your Volvo

If you suspect, based on any of the signs above, that your Volvo’s transfer case could be faulty. Here are 4 tips to help you deal with the situation:

• Inspect for damage. You need to first figure out what could be wrong before you can take measures to fix an issue. Hence, look for any sign of damage such as broken or worn parts.
• Check fluid levels. Since we have established that lubricating fluid plays an important role in ensuring the proper functioning of the transfer case, one of the things you can do to solve a failure is to get the fluid level back on track. You should also make sure that the fluid has the right color and does not contain contaminants.
• If you are driving when you suddenly start noticing signs of transfer case failures, it’s best to stop driving. However, if you can’t, shift from the 4WD to the 2WD. This helps to reduce the strain on the transfer case.
• The safest option for dealing with transfer case failure in your car is to find a reliable mechanic to take a look and proffer solutions.

Volvo Experts in Texas for Your Transfer Case Issues

Handling a serious issue like a transfer case fault requires the expertise of auto professionals. Hence, if you want the best for your Volvo, ensure that you get one that knows all about Volvo vehicles and their issues.

Rowlett Motorworks is a top-notch automobile shop with a state-of-the-art repair facility that can handle minor and major issues with various cars. We proudly service European, Domestic, and Import vehicles. If you are in Garland, Rockwall, Sachse, Wylie, or Rowlett, TX, and you are looking for exceptional services for your car, give us a call today!

* Grey Volvo XC 40 Car image credit goes to: Neydtstock.