4x4 Transfer Box Repair, Service & Reconditioning
Specialist 4x4 Transfer Box repair, oil service, and full reconditioning. Fixing whining noises, fluid leaks, and 4WD engagement issues. Get a fast, guaranteed quote!
Diagnosis
Common Symptoms
4WD System Fails to Engage or Disengage
If your vehicle hesitates to switch into 4WD (High or Low) or gets stuck in a particular mode, this is a clear sign of transfer box failure. This is often due to internal component damage, worn clutch packs, or an electrical fault in the shift motor, which requires immediate attention from a specialist.
Grinding, Growling, or Humming Noises
Loud, unusual noises that change pitch with vehicle speed are the most common sign of serious internal wear. These sounds typically indicate worn bearings, a loose drive chain, or damaged gears inside the transfer box. Ignoring these noises can lead to catastrophic internal failure and damage to the connecting driveshafts.
Fluid Leaks Under the Vehicle
The transfer box relies on clean, sufficient fluid for lubrication and cooling. If you notice a puddle or weeping around the central underside of your vehicle, this suggests a failing seal or gasket. A fluid leak must be addressed instantly, as running the transfer box dry will guarantee its destruction.
Transfer Box Repair
Fixing Specific Faults to Restore 4WD Functionality
When your 4x4 or AWD vehicle encounters a specific fault—such as a faulty shift actuator (shift motor), a broken linkage, or a minor fluid leak—our targeted repair service is the most efficient solution. Our Irish workshop uses specialized diagnostic tools to accurately identify the source of the issue, whether mechanical or electrical. By focusing the repair on the exact faulty part, we avoid unnecessary work, quickly restoring your vehicle's ability to smoothly engage and disengage the four-wheel-drive system. We ensure all repairs use high-quality components for long-lasting reliability.
Transfer Box Service
Protecting Your Drivetrain with Routine Preventative Care
Routine fluid service is the single most critical preventative maintenance task for a transfer box. The fluid operates under high stress, especially in Ireland where vehicles frequently encounter variable terrain, towing, or high mileage driving. Over time, the fluid degrades and accumulates metal particles, reducing its essential lubricating properties. Our comprehensive service involves draining the old, contaminated fluid and refilling the unit with the manufacturer-specified, high-performance transfer box oil. We generally recommend this service every 60,000 to 70,000 kilometers for normal use, or sooner for severe driving conditions.
Transfer Box Reconditioning
Restoring Power Distribution to Factory Standards
Transfer box reconditioning is the ultimate solution for units suffering from severe damage, internal chain stretch, or extensive bearing wear. This service involves completely dismantling the transfer box, cleaning the casing, and replacing all internal wear items, including the chain, all bearings, clutch packs, seals, and any damaged internal gears. Reconditioning provides a reliable, long-term solution by returning the entire unit to its original factory specification. We offer this high-quality, guaranteed service as a cost-effective alternative to purchasing and fitting an expensive new unit from the main dealer.
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Is your transfer box acting up?
Don't wait until it fails completely. Early diagnosis can save you thousands. Book your performance check today.
Customer Stories
Trusted by drivers
"Nissan CVT import failed, 7th Gear recommended. Difficult to make contact but eventually succeeded. Had the car for 15 days, said it would take 2 weeks. Car driving perfectly, 1 year guarantee and price less than original quotation. Overall, little less than full marks for initial contact, full marks for communication after that and very definitely full marks for work done and for pricing. Very efficient and professional. Thanks"
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William Reilly
"Unusually for Ireland I could book my car in for a Saturday appointment which meant it didn’t interfere with weekday needs. My auto gearbox was in need of a full service. After getting quotes for up to €320 from others, I had the service done here in one hour and paid €220. Friendly and efficient service from a very busy specialist transmission shop. Thanks 7th Gear !"
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John phelan
"VW DSG Gearbox Fixed – Brilliant Service! I recently had issues with my 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox, showing repeated transmission failure errors—really worrying stuff. After doing some research, I brought my car to 7th Gear Gearbox Repairs, and I'm so glad I did. From the start, their team was professional and reassuring. They carried out a free gearbox performance check, including a full diagnostic and road test. They explained everything clearly and gave me a free quote before starting any work, which I appreciated. ON A SATURDAY! The repair was done quickly and thoroughly in their dedicated machine shop. They rebuilt the gearbox and resolved the issue completely—no more error messages, and the car now drives smoothly and confidently. Best of all, their work came with a 12-month unlimited mileage guarantee, which gave me total peace of mind. Everyone I dealt with was friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared about getting it right. I highly recommend 7th Gear if you're having any gearbox problems—especially with DSG transmissions. Truly expert service!"
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John Thorp
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions about your Automatic gearbox repair or need specific advice on an Clutch & Flywheel replacement? Don't Don't hesitate to contact our expert transmission specialists directly. We are ready to provide the precise answers and tailored solutions your vehicle requires.
- What is the transfer box, and why is it important in a 4x4?
- The transfer box is a crucial component located behind your transmission (gearbox) in a 4x4 or AWD vehicle. Its primary function is to split the power (torque) between the front and rear axles. In part-time 4WD vehicles, it also allows the driver to switch between 2WD and 4WD High/Low modes. It is essential for maintaining optimal traction, stability, and control, particularly on challenging roads, in wet conditions, or when towing across Ireland.
- How often should the transfer box fluid be changed?
- The general recommendation is to change the transfer box fluid every 60,000 to 70,000 kilometers. However, if your vehicle is frequently used for severe service—such as heavy towing, sustained off-roading, or deep water wading—we strongly advise shortening this interval to 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers. Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual, but regular inspection and replacement are key to preventing component failure.
- Is a transfer box problem sometimes mistaken for a differential issue?
- Yes, symptoms can often overlap. Both the transfer box and the differentials distribute power, and issues in either can cause similar noises (whining, clunking) or vibrations. However, a transfer box problem specifically relates to the selection or distribution of power between the front and rear, whereas a differential issue usually relates to noise or wear that is more noticeable during turning (as the diff manages the speed difference between wheels). A professional diagnosis is essential to isolate the correct component.
- What is the main cause of 4x4 transfer box failure?
- The single most common cause of transfer box failure is low or contaminated fluid. If a seal fails, the fluid leaks out, leading to insufficient lubrication and catastrophic overheating and friction inside the unit. Failure to change the fluid at recommended service intervals also allows metal debris to build up, leading to accelerated wear of the internal chain, bearings, and gears. Proactive service prevents nearly all major failures.