4x4 not working!

CardGuy · April 13, 2005

Truck: 2003 Z71, 5.3, 65,000 miles, bone stock.

This moring I notice that the 2wheel/4wheel selector switch does not have any lights light up. I tried selecting auto4, and 4high but nothing happens. I usually hear a little click in the switch when it changes to a different mode. I tried putting it in 4hi and taking a sharp corner in a paved parking lot to see if the wheels are engaged and they are not. Do these switches just go bad?

Where should I start on this?

Does the front dash piece just pull off so I can get at the switch if I need to replace it?

Are there any fuses for the switch?

Is it something else that's common?

How much is a new switch?

asilverblazer · April 13, 2005

Check all fuses, not sure which one.

The dash does just pull off to access the switch, it is just clipped in.

Also check the plugs on back of the switch to make sure they aren't unplugged.

On a side note I am surprised the "Service 4 Wheel Drive" message didn't come up.

The switch is a common problem, and cost is at or under 65$ from various places (try GMPartsdirect)

CardGuy · April 13, 2005

Check all fuses, not sure which one.
The dash does just pull off to access the switch, it is just clipped in.

Also check the plugs on back of the switch to make sure they aren't unplugged.

On a side note I am surprised the "Service 4 Wheel Drive" message didn't come up.

The switch is a common problem, and cost is at or under 65$ from various places (try GMPartsdirect)

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

No "service 4 wheel drive" message was displayed. I did have the Check engine light for a couple of days on a few weeks ago but that has since dissappeared. I also had the service 4 wheel drive light on about a year ago but that dissappeared right away and has not been back on since.

I just went out to check fuses and rattle the plug. First I started up the truck and the switch was working normal. I hadn't done anything to it yet. Go figure. I suppose it will fail on me when I need it to get out of a muddy field. Anyway, right now I'm just going to keep an eye on it and hope it doens't fail often because even $80 (local dealer cost) right now hurts my checkbook.

silverado man · April 13, 2005

I'm thinking it might be the switch is your problem even though you haven't had the service 4wd message yet. Try tapping the switch or the dash to see if the lights light up and if they do try to select 4wd.