Wrangler JL Front Axle Disconnect Issues

[Johngee]

I have a 2018 Wrangler JL with just over 16,000 miles on it. I recently had issues getting the 4WD to work in 4 LOW (the shifter works but it seems like its not engaging the front axle). Also, the "SERV 4WD" light came on but went out after driving in normal 2WD for a few miles. I read about the FAD (Front Axle Disconnect) and did a few checks as suggested (loose fuses, loose wire on connector) but could not find the source. I'm not sure if the front axle is actually engaging when the dash light indicates '4WD LOW" because the rear wheels slip and spin on a soft slope but the front wheels do not. Any ideas on what's wrong?

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[GATORB8]

Does it work in 4 hi?

 

[Johngee]

Does it work in 4 hi?

No. It turns out that the FAD actuator (part # 6839561AA) was bad so the dealership replaced it under warranty.

 

[Johngee]

I just wonder how many others had this same FAD problem. The part itself (FAD actuator) cost is around $300 so I may have to carry a spare just in case it ever goes bad again while off road. I almost got stuck in a sandy area (before it was repaired) without knowing the 4WD was malfunctioning (because the indicator light showed it was in 4WD when in fact it was not.)

 

[Johngee]

I found this video which explains wat the FAD does and how it works. JL JOURNAL : Understanding the FAD - How the JL Front Axle Disconnect Works | JLWrangler Jeep Forum

 

[stpetejeepermike]

Im on my 2nd round FAD Issues in my 2020 JT "Same Axle" "Same FAD" "Same Eletronics" with 19k miles. They replaces the shafts and FAD but not the module behind the rear panel back drivers side seat. They have opened a STAR case, and dum founded at the issue.

I was looking at the wiring diagram and even went as far as removing the front drive shaft to make sure it was the Axle not my transfer case. There is a sensor on the top of the transfer case for positioning.. Maybe that sensor is bad as it tells the FAD what position the transfer case is in and activates the FAD?

New issue and seems to be popping up with more milage..

 

[stpetejeepermike]

My FAD was replaced last week, it would randomly engage after long drives around town stop n go traffic, turning off n on at each store. It would make a ratcheting sound from the from axle and engaging my drive shaft then a clunk. Putting into 4H or unplugging the FAD made it disappear.

STAR Case was created and they said replace FAD and the shafts, flash the module. Of course after they fixed, test drove seemed fixed.. 8 mile later it returned. FAD is engaging at random, mostly after driving for a while.

Back at the dealership waiting on the ALL STAR Team for advise.

Seems Im finding JL owners and JT owners when they are hitting the 15-20K mile mark this issue is happening. Reading other forums Dodge 1500 used the CAD and this issue was common, Electrical failures, loose connects, fuses, transfer sensor switches..

I really think its the Transfer case sensor or something inside throwing the signal that its in 4wd but that's just me.

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