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Symptom Chart(s): Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Diagnostics in this service information assume a certain skill level and knowledge of Ford-specific diagnostic practices. REFER to: Diagnostic Methods

In most circumstances the PCM sets a DTC to help guide with diagnostics. Refer to the DTC Chart before using the Symptom Chart. The Condition column lists the vehicle condition. The Possible Sources column lists a detailed vehicle condition. The Action column lists the action to be performed to determine the cause of the condition. Each action lists the components that can cause the system and the individual components in that system. The components are listed in order of disassembly. Use the list of components and the required action to focus on disassembly inspections for the root cause of the concern.

Symptom Chart 

Condition Possible Sources Actions
The power transfer unit makes noise Tire inflation pressure MAKE SURE all tires and wheels inflation pressures are correct.
Tire and wheel size MAKE SURE all tires and wheels are the same size and brand.
Fluid level FILL with the correct type and amount of lubricant. REFER to: Transfer Case Fluid Level Check 
Internal components OPERATE the vehicle in all gears. If there is noise in the transmission in NEUTRAL, or in some gears and not in others, REMOVE and REPAIR the transmission. If there is noise in all gears, INSTALL a new power transfer unit. REFER to: Transfer Case  REFER to: Transfer Case 
Leaking fluid from the power transfer unit vent Power transfer unit is over filled Drain the fluid to the correct level. REFER to: Transfer Case Fluid Level Check 
Leaking automatic transmission fluid Power transfer unit intermediate shaft seal REFER to Analysis of Leakage 
Power transfer unit compression seal REFER to Analysis of Leakage 
Power transfer unit intermediate shaft bushing REFER to Analysis of Leakage 
Leaking gear lubricant from the seals The power transfer unit vent is plugged (located on top of the power transfer unit) INSTALL a new power transfer unit vent. REFER to: Transfer Case Vent 
Damaged seals Replace leaking seal. REFER to: Transfer Case Input Shaft Seal LH  REFER to: Transfer Case Input Shaft Seal RH  REFER to: Transfer Case Rear Seal  REFER to: Intermediate Shaft Seal 
Vehicle has no or inadequate torque at rear wheels Rear Drive Unit failure REFER to: Rear Drive Axle and Differential
Power transfer unit mechanical failure INSTALL a new power transfer unit. REFER to: Transfer Case  REFER to: Transfer Case 
Vehicle binds in a turn or resists turning/pulsates or shudders in a straight line Wheels/tires REFER to: Wheels and Tires
Brake system REFER to: Brake System
Wheel bearings REFER to: Suspension System
Halfshafts REFER to: Front Drive Halfshafts REFER to: Rear Drive Halfshafts
ABS system REFER to: Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and Stability Control
Loss of AWD function or partial AWD function Power transfer unit overheating INSPECT the duct that cools the power transfer unit sump is free and clear of debris.
NOTE: Inspection of the seal's mating journal should be performed every time a seal is replaced. The mating part/journal should be replaced if it has any of the following conditions: Radial wear groove that is felt by running a finger nail across where the seal lip runs. Scratches, pitting, galling, nicks or other shaft damage under or near where the seal lip runs. Discoloration or coked oil on the shaft where the seal lip runs. Shaft corrosion under or near where the seal lip runs. Sharp edges or burrs on the shaft lead in chamfer. NEVER use emery cloth on journal finishes, replace the part.