What does axle lock mean?

This vehicle is equipped with electronically locking front and rear differentials. These differentials, when engaged, mechanically lock together the axle shafts forcing the wheels to spin at an equal rate.

What causes a diff to lock up?

If left too long or if the fluid starts to run low, the differential will become noisy and can eventually fail. If that happens, the gears can seize, locking up the rear wheels and potentially causing a lot of damage or even an accident.

What is axle lock used for?

Lockers, also known as differential lockers, lock a pair of axles together so that both wheels in the pair get equal amounts of power from the transmission at all times.

When should you use axle lock?

The locking of the rear differential should only be engaged during low-speed, extreme off-road situations where one wheel is likely to not be in contact with the ground. It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the differentials locked on pavement due to the reduced ability to turn and speed limitations.

Is the locking differential in the front of the car?

The “EDL” system works in a straight line and on corners. It cannot lock the front differential, which is why it is mis-named. An electronic limited-slip differential would be closer to the mark, but even better would be “brake traction control” which is the proper name for it. The marketing people got carried away here.

How to diagnose an automatic locking hub problem?

Diagnosing an automatic locking hub problem may require test driving the vehicle or raising a front wheel to see if the hub is engaging and disengaging properly. Put the transmission in park, set the parking brake and raise the chassis so one of the front wheels is off the ground while the other is still on the ground.

Why does the axle shaft turn when you spin the wheel?

If the axle shaft turns when you spin the wheel, it means the hub has not disengaged. To check engagement, rotate the axle shaft backwards. This should lock the hub. Try turning the wheel by hand again. The axle shaft should now turn with the wheel if the hub is locked.

What causes the hub to lock in four wheel drive?

When torque is applied by the driveshaft, it forces the hub to slide in and lock. The hub then remains in the locked position as long as the transfer case remains in four-wheel drive.