Volvos with 4WD (4-wheel drive) or AWD (All-Wheel drive) help to make movement through rough roads or off-road terrains easier and smoother. The transfer case is an essential component that makes this possible. Your Volvo’s transfer case transfers power from your car's engine to the front and rear wheels for movement. This power transfer also helps your car maintain traction in poor road conditions.
While this car component is great, it can run into problems that could cause it to fail. When this happens, driving in the affected car can be dangerous. This is why it's important to find a solution to the problem once you see the signs.
How to Recognize Volvo Transfer Case Failure
Here are some common signs that indicate that your car's transfer case could be faulty.
- Unusual Sounds: If you start to hear unusual, loud noises from under your car, then it could be a sign of a transmission system problem. A faulty transfer case can cause clicking, grinding, or squealing sounds. This is most likely when parts of the system are broken and hit against the other parts.
- 4WD Problems: Since the transfer case is responsible for changing your car from the 2WD(2-wheel drive) to the 4WD, a problem with this transfer case could cause problems with engaging the 4WD. You may need to contact your mechanic to fix this issue.
- Burning Smell from Transmission System: Another sign that could indicate a transmission system issue is a burning odor coming from that side. This could mean that your Volvo’s transfer case does not have sufficient oil/fluid for lubrication, causing excess friction between the parts of the system and this produces a burning smell from the heat caused.
- Vehicle Vibrations: If you notice that your car gets unsteady or vibrates especially when accelerating, then it could be a sign that the transfer case has some problems. If you also notice jerky movement when you try to shift gear, it could be due to this reason as well. This issue is commonly caused by low fluid levels and you have to see your mechanic to fix it.
Effective Solutions for Transfer Case Failure in Your Volvo
If your Volvo has a transfer case problem, here are some tips to help you fix it:
- Fluid Inspection and Refill: For your car's transfer case to function effectively, it needs an adequate supply of fluid for lubrication. Lack of lubrication makes it difficult for parts of this car's system to function effectively, causing a failure. Hence, you can solve your car's transfer case issues by checking its oil level and refilling when necessary.
- Sealing the System: Most transfer case issues result from low oil levels which could lead to a leakage from the transmission system. Hence, if you can identify the source of the leak and seal it up with a sealant, you can solve your car's transfer case issues.
- Fix Electrical Issues: Your Volvo's transfer case problem could be due to some faulty collections or other electrical problems. This will prevent the communication between the engine and the axles/wheels of the car. Hence, you should look out for signs of electrical faults and fix them as necessary. Some common signs are blown fuses or corrosion around the wires.
- Replace the Faulty Parts: You can also fix your car's transfer case issues by replacing damaged or faulty parts. Depending on the level of damage, you may need to replace a part of your car's transfer case rather than repair it. You should, however, speak to a professional on the best course of action.
How Royalty Auto Service Helps with Volvo Transfer Case Problems
Royalty Auto Service is a top auto repair shop in St. Mary’s with qualified technicians and high-quality tools
and equipment for any repair or replacement function in a car.
We offer expert maintenance and repair services for various car brands, including your Volvo. We will use our diagnostic tools to find out the problem with your car and decide on the best course of action. We also offer free pick-up and drop-off services to make the process of fixing your car seamless for you. So, if you are in and around Amelia Island, Brunswick, Kingsland, King Bay Base, Woodbine, Yulee, and St Marys, GA, visit us today!
* Gray Volvo XC90 Car image credit goes to:Artistic Operations.