Does the Transfer Case Oil Need to Be Replaced?
2 Answers
The transfer case oil needs to be replaced. The effects of not replacing it for a long time include: 1. Increased wear on the gears inside the transfer case; 2. Damage to the transfer case; 3. Reduced lubrication performance, with many metal particles present in the oil. The transfer case is a device that distributes the engine's power, directing it to the rear axle or simultaneously to both the front and rear axles. The working principle of the transfer case is: after the engine's power passes through the transmission, it is directly connected to the rear axle via the driveshaft. The transfer case then extends an additional output from the transmission and, through a silent chain, transfers the power to the front axle's output shaft. Its characteristics include: 1. Improving the vehicle's off-road capability; 2. High reliability; 3. Switching to two-wheel drive mode on smooth roads can reduce consumption.
I've been driving off-road vehicles for nearly a decade, and my personal experience tells me that transfer case oil must be changed regularly. It's the key lubricant that ensures the smooth operation of the four-wheel-drive system. If left unchanged for a long time, it can degrade, potentially mixing with metal shavings or moisture, which affects lubrication. During off-roading, aggressive driving or high-pressure conditions like snowy roads can cause the oil temperature to rise and deteriorate, leading to gear wear, unusual noises, or even seizing in the transfer case. My old car once missed an oil change, resulting in friction noises during startup and repair costs exceeding a thousand dollars. Manufacturers typically recommend inspection every 40,000-60,000 km—replace immediately if the oil appears black or has a burnt smell. Checking oil levels is simple enough, but replacement requires professional tools, so it's best left to a repair shop to ensure the correct oil type is used. Preventive maintenance saves hassle and money, especially for those who frequently drive on dirt roads—it's absolutely not something to overlook.
