rtrdriver

The shop I had work on it put a new actuator motor on. They did it the way Lexus recommends....split the transfer case and install the shift motor..then reassemble.. Driving home I tried it out and now the for wheel drive engages as it should..After much research, it was done for a reasonable price.

BabyH

Hey there! How much did you end up spending on parts and labor?
I'm going through the exact same issue as you went through right now

Booyah

HUH--how do you know this, Its AWD all the time, Im missing something in your verbage

chiph9

Right - the thread title is misleading - their problem was the center differential wouldn't lock. The vehicle is full-time 4WD so there is no "engagement" needed.

I had the dreaded transfer case leak repaired at the dealer several years ago, and I seem to remember it was in the $1500 range - the labor needed is similar to replacing the diff lock electric motor. The part for the actuator is listed as $1056. Can't hurt to ask for goodwill help on the price.

https://www.lexussouthatlantaparts.c...rimLevel=19100

It might be worthwhile to look into a parts-yard transfer case (a new one is $2600). The dealer won't install it since it's not from their parts counter, but if you have a 4WD specialist in your area they can handle it. The labor will be a lot less since you aren't splitting the case open.

Chip H.