The Chevy Silverado is one of the most dependable trucks, with an estimated lifespan of up to 300,000 miles. However, this truck is prone to mechanical issues like a faulty transfer case over time.
Therefore, most Chevy owners always ask, what are Chevy Silverado transfer case problems? Like other vehicle models, your Chevy Silverado may experience different transfer case issues like fluid leakage, contamination of transfer fluid, difficulty in shifting gears, trouble engaging/disengaging the 4WD mode, and many more.
But how do you tell whether or not your Silverado has transfer case problems? In this guide, I will discuss the different transfer case issues, their causes, and how to fix them.
Chevy Silverado Transfer Case Problems? See If You Have Any!
A transfer case is a component designed to transfer power from your Chevy Silverado’s transmission to all four wheels. Just like other mechanical parts of your Silverado, the transfer case is prone to several problems, including:
Transfer case fluid leakage
The transfer case is filled with transmission fluid to keep the gears and other internal parts lubricated and cool. So, one of the common transfer case problems in Chevy Silverado is leakage. A leak may occur due to a damaged seal, gasket, or the transfer case itself.
Trouble shifting gears
Sometimes you may have difficulty changing the gears between driving modes when the transfer case is faulty. This occurs when there are no sufficient levels of transfer case fluid to lubricate the gears.
Reduced fluid levels
The transfer case of your Chevy Silverado is also prone to low fluid levels. This commonly happens due to leaks and lack of maintenance.
Loose nuts
Chevy Silverado’s transfer case is usually bolted directly to the transmission. However, the nuts may become loose over time due to exposure to corrosive chemicals and heat. And it may result in a transfer case issue.
Transfer case automatically changes to neutral
When the transfer case fluid is low, your Silverado’s transmission may feel like it’s slipping into neutral driving mode. The low fluid levels allow your truck to move a short distance until the filter cannot pick up any fluid.
Contaminated transfer case fluid
Over time, the transfer case fluid usually breaks down and becomes dirty, causing difficulty in shifting gears. Typically, contaminated fluid may be black in color with traces of metal particles.
Failure to engage or disengage 4WD
Another transfer case problem with the Chevy Silverado is the four-wheel drive not engaging or disengaging. In this case, knowing how to reset transfer case control module Silverado could help fix the problem.
How Do You Tell Chevy Silverado Has Transfer Case Problems?
We have seen what problems to expect if you have a faulty transfer case. But there could be other issues causing these problems. So how do you know the problem is actually related to your Silverado transfer case? Below are signs to watch out for.
Vibrations and grinding noise
The transfer case could be faulty if you hear your truck making grinding noises or vibrations when shifting into 4WD mode. This usually occurs due to low transfer case fluid levels or damaged gears.
Service 4WD warning light
The service 4WD lights or check engine lights may come on as a warning of Silverado transfer case problems. This happens when the transfer case cannot transfer power to the transmission as expected.
Fluid puddles beneath the transfer case
If you spot traces of thick fluid puddles just beneath the transfer case, it means the component has a leakage.
Smell of burning fluid
When the transfer case fluids are low, this may result in excess friction inside the component. Consequently, you might smell something burning while driving.
Trouble staying in 4WD mode
Sometimes, your transfer case may keep popping out of 4WD mode due to internal transfer case problems. Or, you may have trouble engaging and disengaging your truck’s 4WD system.
Causes Silverado Transfer Case Problems?
What causes the different transfer case problems on your Chevy Silverado? Let’s find out.
Damaged bearings, seals, or gaskets
The transfer case’s seals, bearings, and gaskets have a limited lifespan. Once the lifespan expires, the transfer case may start experiencing problems like fluid leakage. Damaged seals may also lead to transmission problems in the 2014 Silverado.
Normal wear and tear
Just like other components of your Silverado, the transfer case is also prone to regular wear and tear. Over time, this causes severe damage to the transfer case.
Rust and corrosion
The Chevy Silverado transfer case has metal parts prone to rust over time. If the component becomes corroded, it may have trouble transferring power.
Can You Fix Your Silverado Transfer Case Problems?
Yes. For example, if the transfer case fluid is contaminated or burned, you simply discard it and add clean fluid. Meanwhile, if the transfer case has low fluids, you must add more ACDelco GM Original Equipment 10-4017 Transfer Case Fluid. You can find the fluid here on Amazon at an affordable price.
Another way to fix the transfer case problems is to replace the seals and gaskets if damaged or worn out. This will help eliminate fluid leaks.
Also, see if the nuts are holding the transfer case to the transmission that became loose or not. Tighten them if they’ve become loose.
If the transfer case is damaged beyond repair, you may have to replace it with a new motor.
FAQs
Below, you can find answers to commonly asked questions regarding the causes of Chevy Silverado transfer case problems.
How much would it cost to replace a damaged Chevy Silverado transfer case?
If the motor of the transfer case is damaged, you can expect to pay between $400 and $500 for the replacement. Additional labor charges may cost around $100 or less.
Can I drive with a bad Chevy Silverado transfer case?
Yes, but it is not recommended. Driving your truck with transfer case problems may damage the component, including the transmission, beyond repairs. In the end, you may have to spend more money to fix the mechanical issues.
Can a bad Chevy Silverado transfer case ruin a transmission?
Yes. Because the transfer case is built to transfer power to the transmission. So, if the component is not working optimally, it may cause the transmission to overheat and get damaged. As a result, shifting between the gears can be a challenge.
How can I tell my Silverado transfer case has problems?
You simply watch out for signs like your truck not engaging, disengaging, or staying in 4WD. You may also hear strange noises and get a warning 4WD or engine light. Sometimes, the gears may not shift.
Conclusion
The good news is there are many ways to determine Chevy Silverado transfer case problems like fluid leaks, contaminated fluids, and even loose bolts. They’re pretty common and could be easily solved. However, issues like a damaged motor of the transfer case is beyond repair and will need replacement by a professional mechanic.
