Have you ever faced issues related to the front axle of the car? We know, these problems are very hectic and need immediate resolution as waiting could lead to severe damages to the engine.
In this article, we will discuss and talk about the four-wheel-drive actuator, the switch that helps in engaging and disengaging. The topic deals with the ways of how to tell if a 4wd actuator is bad, its replacement costs, its functions, and certain frequently asked questions. 
So, let’s begin with the content and elaborate on all the necessary points which would help you in dealing with the issue and finding the solution to your questions.
Table of Contents
What Is A 4wd Actuator?
A four-wheel drive actuator is an electronic device used to engage the front differential on a so-equipped vehicle. In some vehicles, the operator is required to turn or push a switch on the vehicle’s dash to activate the front axle of the car and four-wheel-drive system.
The main function of the actuator is to allow you to engage and disengage the four-wheel drive. The axle actuator works together with the transfer case to send torque to all four wheels of the vehicle.
How To Tell If A 4wd Actuator Is Bad?
The clutch engagement switch is a device that is commonly found on 4wd i.e., four-wheel-drive vehicles. As the name states, it is a switch that controls the engagement of the front axles in the vehicles.
In most vehicles, the four-wheel-drive components are manufacture for a long service life but they can be prone to certain issues over time. Thus, for such cases, the signs or symptoms generated by the bad or failing clutch engagement switch help or alert the driver of a potential problem. So, let’s discuss some of the ways to indicate a faulty 4wd actuator.
1. Hesitation In Throttle Response
In a healthy vehicle, there are very less chances that the throttle response might hesitate. But in a damaged or worn-out four-wheel drive actuator, the frequent or constant hesitation on throttle response may be observed.
As a result, the faulty actuator may send a false signal to the engine control unit (ECM). Thus, there is an excess fuel delivery to the motor than the air. Due to this rich situation can take place in a combustion chamber that can make the engine delay the ignition air and fuel mixture.
However, we recommend you to look for more symptoms and do not decide by noticing one sign.
2. Reduction In Fuel Economy
The rate of fuel consumption in vehicles determines certain conditions or the health of the car. Thus, whenever you notice poor fuel economy in your vehicle then ignorance is not the option as that could be a symptom of some serious issue.
When the kicker actuator sends a false signal to the computer then the inaccurate air to fuel ratio is generated. Thus, the engine consumes more fuel during a long journey but this might damage the engine pretty bad as well.
3. Black Smoke
The air to fuel ratio in vehicles is a very important aspect. Hence, whenever the air to fuel ratio is inaccurate, it might indicate multiple problems such as the emergence of black smoke in vehicles.
The improper air to fuel ratio generates a lot of unburnt fuel that will find its way out through the tailpipe as black smoke. Therefore, if your vehicle blowing out black smoke then that is surely not a good sign.
4. Engine Stalling
A damaged or worn-out throttle kicker actuator can affect the idle ability of the engine sometimes which would result in the generation of a variety of issues in the vehicle. There could be the initiation of certain problems like an engine shutting off or stall when the idle drives low.
These problems may also occur when an actuator isn’t working at all. In such cases, you need to replace the actuator as soon as possible to prevent further complications. In new four-wheel-drive vehicles when the actuator failed that causes an OBD-II error, which will store in the engine control unit (ECU).
So, here are some of the ways that would help you in knowing about your bad four-wheel drive actuator. There might be few other symptoms of a failing actuator but these are considered major ones. Therefore, ignorance of these signs is not acceptable.
Why Is My 4wd Light Flashing?
A flashing indicator light in 4wd typically causes by wiring or an electrical component like the controller, a failing motor or fork, a speed sensor, or a position switch. Most four-wheel-drive units have an actuator locates on the front axle to lock and engage the front axle for 4wd.
How Do I Test My Transfer Case Module?
The transfer case module data help in accessing with a scan tool as the tech 2, which is GM’s official scan tool. Thus, to get the proper screens, you must choose the powertrain selection and then navigate your way to the ATC selections.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A 4wd Actuator?
The cost of four-wheel-drive replacement is pretty high in vehicles. The average cost for transfer case shift motor replacement may range between $600 to $650. The labor cost estimates between $90 to $110, the parts price is around $520.
However, these ranges do not include taxes and fees and may vary depending upon the type and model of the vehicle. Also, the prices depend widely on the location i.e., it may differ from place to place.
Conclusion
We hope the information mentioned above help and guides you in dealing with the issues. However, by the end of the content, we expect that all the readers know how to tell if a 4wd actuator is bad or not. Also, the regular servicing and maintenance of the vehicle can prevent all these problems.
If your doubts or queries regarding the matter continue, please comment below in the comment section. And we will make extreme efforts to answer all your questions as quickly as possible.
