Dakota 3.9 SLT. Beginning in July, Service 4WD was illuminated intermittently and LEDs on Selector Switch would blink and cycle through all modes while driving in 2WD. Lately only Service 4WD is illuminated continuously. Changing the position of the Selector Switch has no affect on mode - stays in 2WD. Based on what I read in online forums, and checking the transfer case wiring for obvious worn or broken wires, it seemed the most likely failure was the TCCM, so I purchased a factory new unit from an online Dodge dealer and just installed it (disconnected battery negative terminal during install). The problem persists and the Service 4WD is still illuminated continuously. Plan to check out Selector Switch resistances next. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

Welcome to the forum.

I'm not trying to sound like a smart*ss but I'd suggest you get the code read. You'd need a DRB (dealer) or equivalent type of reader. Then you know exactly what to swap out.

The system can help you diagnose the problem. Otherwise you may end up buying a lot of unneeded parts, like the TCCM.

It could be switch, it could be the actuator on the transfer case, or something else.

 

To follow up on the recommendation, I reluctantly visited my local Dodge dealer service center and had the diagnostic code read. Based on the diagnostics, I needed the transfer case shift motor replaced. The service manager assured me that motor replacement would resolve the issue. Well, $650 later, the new motor did not resolve the problem. The mechanic told me that after he replaced the motor and realized the shift switch mode was still cycling and lights were flashing he swapped in a new Central Timer Module which he claimed resolved the problem. I was assured that shifting into and out of 4WD was functioning properly and the remaining problem was only a nuisance. Well shifting is not working properly and I believe the shift motor was not in need of replacement. Now I am faced with paying the dealer another $500 to replace/program the CTM. Just wanted to share this experience. Not sure if I will spend more especially given my experience with the 'experts' at the dealership.

 

Hear you on the "experts."

I wouldn't pay the $650 if they didn't fix the problem. That's why you were there.

Take them to court if necessary.

 

i would talk with them they said it would fixs the problem offer to pay for the part only no lador, if they dont like it take them to court, most likly they will settle out of court just to keep a good name

 

Sounds like 80% of all shops these days thats how they make money if what we did didn't fix it off we go to fix it again we need more $$ thats all yes we will replace everything till we find it or you go broke. If something gets damaged by us working dont worry we will fix that and bill you for what we damaged or we will deny we damaged it after all it was like that before we worked on lt.

 

Yepper's happened to me on a front brake job they striped out the bolt and dont no tell me found out about 2 months later when i needed another brake job done