I have a 2014 F-150 Lariat Super Crew and I think my 4 wheel drive is not working properly and would like your input.

I live in the PNW and I cannot go up any snow packed roads/hills when I have it in 4x4 High. Even from a dead stop, I only get half way, if that, and then I have to back down and find an alternate route. There is a grinding sound coming from the front end as well. Also, when going up a hill, the back end does fishtail a bit. I also tried the 4x4 Low on my street and after multiple attempts to get it into 4x4 Low, it engaged but only the rear tires were spinning, nothing from the front and my truck did not move forward. My wife has an AWD Outback and can pull the same roads/hills with no problem which also leads me to believe that I have an issue.

Reading up on a quick Google search, it sounds like a transfer case issue. Could it be something else as well?

Thank you for your time and appreciate the feedback.

 

When does the grinding noise happen?
Is there any evidence of leakage from the transfer case or front axle?

 

It happens when I turn the wheels to the right or left. No leak that I have seen/noticed but can double check.

 

Is the grinding in anyway related to if the vehicle is in 2H, 4H, 4L, or while switching between them?
Do you have somewhere you can jack all four wheels off the ground to test the four wheel drive?

 

Notice it mostly in 4H. I do not have the capability to get all 4 wheels off the ground.

 

Generally grinding related to 4WD is due to a bad transfer case, the fact that it also is related to turning the wheels is strange.
If you want to diag the 4WD you will need to buy 4 jackstands and a floor jack, that way you can lift all wheel a few inches above the ground and run the vehicle while watching the wheels and listening for where the noise is coming from. I know that can be expensive, your other option would be to pay a shop to do this diag using their lift.

 

I do have 2 jack stands and a floor jack, neighbor might have 2 I can borrow to diagnose.

 

I would consider borrowing the neighbor for a minute or two and have them listen while you move the vehicle. They might just be able to help isolate the area and that could save you some time and work, then borrow the stands if you need them.

 

Update.

Took it in to get looked at and the motor that engages the 4 wheel drive has gone out and needs replaced. Part is in and scheduled to get replaced next month. Part and labor comes to about $500. Transfer case is fine from what they said.

 

Yesterday, I went skiing and needed four wheel on the drive up. Everything worked fine no problem. The roads thawed out on the way back so I didn't need four wheel drive. After taking the truck out of four wheel (via selector ****) it still sound like it was engaged. I pulled over several times on the way home and put it in & out of 4 wheel several times.
Just tested the 4x4 and it is working but there is definitely a sound coming from the transfer case. I'm going to have the transfer case fluid checked as a first step.
Anybody have a similar experience? Recommendations welcome!