Tough time going in 4X4 when temp cold

For several years my 2006 Sequoia SR5 will not go into 4X4 when temp is about 30F or below. After driving for awhile, things heat up and it will go in and out just fine. Fluid changes: I change rear diff fluid myself once a year or after I bury it is snow. It seems to suck in moisture. has that water/oil smell.

I change the front diff about every 3 years and it always seems OK. Smells good but a bit dark.

Transfer case fluid always appears great. I do not change it often.

At temps above 30F it will go in and out of 4X4 fine.

Also, I put a new (used) front diff in myself about six years ago and now it will never go into 4 low. light blinks slow like it is trying but never does. Any thoughts?

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A bit off subject, but I seen a first gen sequoia wrecked on the side of a road here in MI. I stopped and every one was OK. Collided with another 4X4. First major snow fall here in Southwest MI. Sad to see them go, one less first gen. But I did think of a few parts I could get off of it!

 

I would change the transfer case fluid. That's where the shifting takes place for 4WD and it sounds like you don't change the fluid very often. I change mine more often than the differential. Also, non use is the biggest cause of shifting issues. You want to make sure you are using 4WD all year long.

 

Maybe I’m stating the obvious for you, but, are you using the correct procedure to put it into 4 low? While rolling click it into 4 hi, when the light stops flashing, come to a stop and put it into neutral with your foot on the brake, then click over to 4 low.

so your transfer case will only engage in temps above 30 or after the truck is warmed up. Be sure you are using the correct viscosity oil for the transfer case, the wrong fluid could do all sorts of weird crap. Maybe there’s even an option for colder climates in your manual.

 

Check your vacuum lines going to the transfer case area. Could be cracked and leak when cold.

 

I appreciate all the responses. Last night I changed the transfer case fluid. Old fluid was dark and had that water mix smell to it. This morning it was 12 degrees F. Same issue as before. After about 10-15 minutes driving it went in to 4X4. Then it cycled in and out of 4X4 with ease throughout the day.

On the cold start this morning when i initially tried to put it in 4X4 I heard the actuator making a ticking noise. I think when the weather gets warmer I will take a closer look at the actuator. I wonder if it is weak and wont work until things are warmed up.

Got lightly rear-ended by 90 year old guy in a subaru. My 2 inch ball went through the subaru front bumper but Sequoia was fine. Shook hands and left.

4 Low- I've had the 10 plus years now. 4 low worked until I damaged the front diff. I bought a used one and put it on myself. I read somewhere that a wire goes to the front diff that ensures the truck is stopped before going into 4 low??? I wonder if i hooked that wire up correctly.

For now, I will look into the actuator and keep it in 4X4 when I park it in the evening in case in need it the next day.

PCJ, thanks for the advice on fluids. I will change them more often. I like to order new plugs before changing otherwise I would have done them all.

 

Maybe try tapping on the actuator with something when you hear it clicking. Obviously in a safe manor

 

I wouldn't be surprised if it was the actuator. Electronics can be finicky with age and something like temperature can make a solder connection, relay contact shrink just enough not to work. Then with heat it will expand enough to connect. I've seen it in many applications.