My 2020 SR5 with 28K miles was stuck in 4WD (4WD light blinking)... potential fix..

Just want to post this here in case anyone else runs into similar issue

Don't drive to much these days as I've been WFH lately, but use 4WD when needed in the winter.. long story short it ended up getting stuck in 4WD last time I used it..

Tried everything I found online (Reddit/tacoma world etc...) to resolve the issue but no luck...

Still had my 5yr Powertrain so figured I'd bring it in to see if it's covered..

They diagnosed the issue as the "front differential actuator" being seized and needed to be replaced "ASAP" for $1500 LOL

He also stated he was able to "hit it and knock it back into 2WD"..

So I said I'm all set and I'll get a second opinion from my local guy who is a buddy of mine..

I'm just going to leave it in 2WD in the interim, but for all I know knocking the actuator with a rubber mallet fixed it for good..

They also recommended new brakes/rotors and many other items totaling up to $4K

Anyways... hope this helps anyone else that runs into this

Key points

- 4WD light blinking? Hit the actuator with a rubber mallet.. literally..

- 4WD actuator does not seem to be covered under Powertrain warranty

- Always avoid dealer BS

 

Generally an automotive warranty only covers manufacturing defects. A temporarily seized/stuck actuator may or may not be considered a manufacturing defect; albeit I think I would argue that it is if it happens again.

The owners manual recommends engaging 4wd on a regular basis presumably to keep stuff lubricated.

 

Theres a few valves on a previous airframe I've worked on that would get stuck open. A nice smack with a rubber mallet would get it working as advertised again lol

 

lol you think I'm good now to switch it on/off? Was planning on just leaving it in 2WD til my buddy takes a look next week

 

yea that's what I was reading. Only turn it on during the winter time. My 2013 Taco never had this issue, and I used it much less frequently.. prob start switching it on now

 

It's good to exercise your 4wd components. Keeps everything lubricated. If it gets stuck.....beat it with a hammer lol

 

yeah, I'd just leave it in 2WD until your other mechanic can look at it.