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Dif lock/transfer case issues

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82 views 3 replies 3 participants last post by  blaz  
I
#1 · (Edited)
Hey all,
I was 4wding on the weekend and at the start I attempted to put the car into 4L which has always worked previously. However, this time it made a beeping noise and the 4L and N lights on the dash flashed and then turned off. (In the past when I tried to turn off 4L it would flash indicating that it wasn't ready to be driven. Id wait like 5 mins and nothing would change but once I drove off it would stop flashing.) Since I wasn't doing anything too hectic I figured I'd just leave it in 4H with the dif lock on but at one point I got bogged. While trying to drive out I realized one of my front wheels wasn't turning, so I figure the dif lock isn't actually locking. A mechanic said that it's most likely not selecting for the dif lock and 4L properly and that its either a vacuum or electrical system depending on the car. Does anyone have any experience with this? Any ideas on where to start to fix it? I know my way around tools but diagnosing is definitely not my strong suit. Any help will be appreciated.
 
I
#2 ·
ID_Izack said:
While trying to drive out I realized one of my front wheels wasn't turning, so I figure the dif lock isn't actually locking.
Click to expand...
Upon Further research I have discovered that the 'lock' is a central locker and so because one of the front wheels was losing traction all power was sent to the rear axles. I think this means the lock is working fine? However I still have my 4L issues so help with this is very much appreciated.
 
#3 ·
The 4WD system on the third gens is electrically controlled - step one in the diagnosis is to switch the ignition on and look for the transfer indicator lights, if they don't turn on for two seconds the next step is to scan for DTCs.

This can be an indicator issue or a 4WD system issue.

Image
 
#4 ·
Sometimes you have to move a canr a meter and then try again. If the center diff light is flashing, you need to wait for it to turn solid than you turn for 4L.
The Grand Vitara comes from the factory with only a center diff lock, which means that the front and rear axles are turning at the same speed. Then you have the front and rear differentials, which still work like normal diffs.
The Vitara only has an electronic diff "lock." It achieves that by braking the wheel that is spinning too fast.
Hope it helps!
 
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