What Does the Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD Service Required Light Mean?

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A four-wheel-drive vehicle is a must-have for off-road hobby drivers. Unlike two-wheel-drive cars, four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles feature a transfer case that requires power from the engine for transferring to all wheels. Because of this configuration, a Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD service required light requires special attention.

Many 4WD vehicles also come with a high and low range setting you turn on depending on the situation. A shifter or button can activate the four-wheel-drive option. But automakers also include a light on your dash to let you know the vehicle’s current setting.

What the lights mean

The four-wheel-drive mode means that the front and rear wheels are rotating at the same speed. Some vehicles have a low range indicator since the high range is the default. Refer to the owner’s manual for your specific model for specific information about the 4WD system.

New model cars come with electronics that control the 4WD system. The 4×4 automatic mode keeps the car in two-wheel drive mode until the vehicle requires extra traction. An inbuilt computer monitors the rotational speeds of the car and if there is slipping, it sends power to all four wheels to keep you going.

Models with 4WD systems usually have a separate light for indicating when there is a problem with the system. For example, the Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD Service Required will come on when the system requires servicing. A code is sent to the computer memory to help technicians identify problems. 

Why 4WDs require more regular servicing

Most modern 4WD vehicles have excellent off-roading capacities. However, even the best of 4WDs break down occasionally. Plus, hardcore off-road driving places extreme demands on your 4WDs. 

Compared to the Mitsubishi Lancer service schedule, your four-wheel vehicle requires more regular servicing. Factory specific 4WD service intervals ensure your automobile is in excellent condition. However, you will require servicing the vehicle more often when it is subjected to dusty conditions, severe vibrations over off-road surfaces, and extreme suspension articulations. 

The vehicle manufacturer cannot foresee all driving situations, nor do they accept liability for part failures and breakdowns because of driving in extreme conditions. Therefore, it is your responsibility to take precautions to prevent failures. 

Knowing what precautions requires some knowledge of parts likely to break in extreme conditions. Parts you should often have checked during your regular 4WD Mitsubishi Triton service schedule, for example, include: 

  • The shock absorbers
  • Timing belts
  • Clutch failures
  • Inspection for potential contaminated fuel

Unique requirements for 4WDs and AWDs

Below are the critical maintenance areas for all-wheel drive (AWD) and 4WDs: 

  • The transfer case—The gearbox transfers transmission power to all four wheels, depending on whether your vehicle has AWD or 4WD. Fluids are used to lubricate gears to ensure they stay cool and run smoothly. It’s advisable you monitor the fluid levels frequently and replace them to prevent gear degradation. Otherwise, the gears will incur damage and premature wear, which can raise your Mitsubishi Pajero service costs significantly. 
  • The differential—This is the gearbox that facilitates the wheels to turn at different speeds; for instance, as you turn a corner. High internal temperatures can lead to the differential fluid breaking down, which compromises its capacity to lubricate gears. Make sure you replace the fluid regularly as well. 

The recommended care

To reduce the chances of the Mitsubishi Outlander 4WD Service Required light coming on, it’s advisable to make sure that your vehicle is primed for the weather condition and road type you typically experience. One way of doing this is by taking it to a professional technician who will remove the fluids and replace them with new ones. Remember that a car driven in severe conditions for extended periods requires more routine maintenance than one that is gently driven or usually on the highway. 

Are you looking for more tips to keep your car’s performance at optimal performance levels? Make sure you check out our blog now!