Questioni have 2005 Nissan XTerra. I left the 4 wheel drive on after a snow storm and the next morning I drove into work (25 miles) with speeds of up to 80 miles per hour. About 15 miles of driving I started hearing a big clanging noise. It also cracked and popped when I turned corners. When I realized it was in 4 wheel and turned it to 2 WD the noise went away. What did I do to my car and should I be driving it at all?
AnswerHi Lisa -
Wow. 80 miles an hour. The 4 wheel drive transfer case is designed for lower speeds not to exceed 25 - 30 miles and hour. the gearing is substantially higher to create more power and traction when in snow, or off roads, definitely not designed for freeway use.
With that said, I believe the transfer case got blown, meaning it just could not handle the high speed, and will need to be overhauled.
The good news is that you may still drive it in 2 wheel mode, but the 4 wheel mode is shot.
I don't know where you are at, but if you use the 4 wheel drive a lot, then you will probably want to overhaul the transfer case. Otherwise, do not use it. Further damage may occur which may add to the cost.
The 2 wheel mode should not be affected, so you may drive it in that mode safely.
Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin
