If you’re a Ford F150 driver, then you must know that there are a lot of sensors and components in the four-wheel engine.
The actuator is one of the smallest but most important components of your F150. When it’s functioning well, this component is usually overlooked.
However, if this component fails, it can cause you a lot of problems. For a smooth driving experience and troubleshooting, knowing your Ford F150 4×4 actuator problems is important.
In this article, we’ll go through the A to Z of some of the most common problems of the Ford F150 4×4 actuator. So put your worries aside and continue reading.
Table of contents
How Does 4×4 Actuator Actually Works?
Before jumping into the issues with the actuator, let’s just take a quick look at how a 4×4 actuator functions.
A 4×4 actuator is an electronic device that engages the front differential on a four-wheel-drive vehicle with a front differential. The front-wheel hubs are home to the 4×4 or 4WD auto-locking hub axle actuators.
These hubs link to axle assemblies and regulate how power is delivered from the axle to your truck’s front wheels. This is a regular occurrence in modern 4WD car models.
What are the Most Common Ford F150 4×4 Actuator Problems?
Every component of the actuator is constantly moving. That’s why these components are prone to damage. Here are some of the most common problems of the Ford F150 4×4 actuator:
- Malfunctioning solenoid
- Leaking vacuum reservoir
- Faulty transfer case
- Grinding noise
1. Malfunctioning Solenoid
The Ford F-150 4×4 actuator is a solenoid that allows your truck to engage four-wheel drive. It’s typically located next to the battery on the passenger side of the truck.
When you put your car in four-wheel drive, this actuator engages the front hubs, ensuring they’re secured into the front differential. There were manual hubs in the past, which required you to exit the vehicle and lock it yourself.
If the solenoid fails, the car won’t go into four-wheel-drive mode. When this happens, the truck’s PCM (Powertrain Control Module) will save a code that will tell you what went wrong.
Mostly, the malfunctioning of the solenoid is caused by moisture. Older solenoids lacked covers/hoods to keep moisture out.
2. Leaking Vacuum Reservoir
If you see a leak somewhere between the engine and a mass airflow sensor in your Ford F150, it might be a leaking vacuum.
Ford F150 4×4 with a bad actuator can cause vacuum leaking. In that case, the airflow will be more than the mass airflow sensor detects.
As a result, the PCM incorrectly calculates the amount of injected fuel, causing the engine to run “lean.” The phrase “lean” refers to a situation with too much air and insufficient fuel.
At idle, when the airflow is smaller, the effect of a vacuum leak is more obvious.
3. Faulty Transfer Case
A faulty transfer case is a common problem on the F150 4x4s. The actuator and the transfer case function together to distribute power to all four wheels.
When there’s a problem with the transfer case, it randomly engages the four-wheel-drive system every 50-75 miles, typically at 55-65mph on the highway.
If this occurs, you can hear the CV axels grinding against the transfer case gear until you slow down or physically engage the 4×4 system. This will eventually wear out the front drivetrain or, worse, further engage unexpectedly, potentially leading to loss of control and collision.
4. Grinding Noise
If you have a Ford F150 4×4 and you hear a grinding sound when slowing it down or reversing, it’s your hub actuator for your IWE 4-wheel drive. Without any warning or signs, this problem can happen.
It works by pulling the hub away from the half shaft, allowing the front wheels to spin freely on two wheels. Cutting off suction in four wheels it allows to mesh with the half shaft and hub and all four wheels to spin.
The issue occurs at random and lasts longer each time. Grinding noise is unaffected by whether you let off the throttle or let it stick.
Your truck may refuse to change up to a higher gear if you have an automatic gearbox, and you’ll have to shift up manually.
Can You Fix a Faulty Ford F150 4×4 Actuator by Yourself?
If your Ford F150 4×4 actuator has the problems mentioned above, it’ll cause you difficulty changing drive modes. That’s why it’s better to fix the actuator problems as soon as possible.
You can fix the problems by yourself if you’re an automotive expert and have all the necessary tools. The processes and tools required for diagnosing and repairing 4WD actuators vary depending on the type of vehicle.
The faulty parts position is quite tough to reach for those with limited automobile industry tools and expertise.
So, our advice would be to take your car to a reputable auto repair shop and have it checked out by a certified mechanic for an accurate diagnosis.
How Much Does a Ford F150 4×4 Actuator Replacement Cost?
The price of a 4WD actuator varies depending on the brand and type.
If your Ford F150 4×4 actuator is damaged, you should first look up the part number and specification in the manufacturer’s manual.
Once you’ve determined that, contact an OEM for your vehicle parts to find out how much a new system will cost.
The cost of replacing a 4WD actuator will include the cost of acquiring the actuator as well as the mechanical work required to replace it. In general, the cost will be between $25 and $200.
How To Replace a Faulty Ford F150 4×4 Actuator
If you want to save some money and replace your faulty actuator by yourself, here are some brief step-by-step instructions:
- Step 1: Remove the wheel
- Step 2: Remove upper ball joint
- Step 3: Remove the tie rod end out of the steering knuckle
- Step 4: Remove the wheel hub
- Step 5: Remove the half shaft
- Step 6: Remove the faulty actuator
- Step 7: Install the new actuator
FAQs
How can I remove a 4WD actuator?
Pull the top of that clip off with a flat blade screwdriver. Simply flip the entire actuator with your adjustable pliers to twist it out. As you twists this the rest of the way out, you’ll find out the old actuator at the back, while the new 1A Auto actuator is in the front.
How can I test a vacuum actuator?
Try actuating them with a hose connected to the engine vacuum to ensure they’re getting enough suction and flow. After that, look at the port on the opposite end. If there’s a vacuum, the seal is leaking, and you know it’s bad; it could still be binding if it doesn’t leak.
How can I tell if my transfer case switch is malfunctioning?
You might hear one or more strange noises coming from your vehicle’s transfer case or under the hood. Also, it can get tough to change gears if your transfer case switch has malfunctioned.
Conclusion
Hopefully, if you’ve read this far, you’ve got all the answers related to Ford F150 4×4 Actuator Problems.
Actuators aren’t something you hear about every day. However, it is one of the most crucial components of your vehicle.
Overlooking actuator problems would not be wise if you want your Ford F150 to run smoothly for a long time.
Thomas is a retired motor mechanic, father, and grandfather. He writes from his 20+ years in the automotive industry to help you find and solve anything related to car repairs, maintenance, and care.