4 WD Issues

[CROW]

Truck is a 2018 4WD dually Aisin with a grand total of 33k.
In March, 2021 the dealer replaced a part "Actuator-Axle Locker" under warranty. Truck had 22,100 miles at that time. The 4WD feature was never really used from March, 2021 until March, 2023. I did engage it a couple times and drove a truck length or so since I have heard it is a good idea to do so and lubricate everything.
In March.2023 I received the Service 4WD message. Dealer has replaced the same part but this time it is my nickel to the tune of almost $700.
What are the odds that a "Actuator-Axle Locker" part will fail not once but twice in about 11K miles when the system was not really used?
Any experience with this issue.
Kinda looks like I get to look forward to purchasing an expensive part every 11k when I do not even use the 4WD system

 

[kthaxton]

Did they actually do some diagnosing?
Are you still using the original batteries?

It has been quite common to see the service 4wd message when the batteries are starting to go bad.

 

[AH64ID]

The part should last a lot longer than that, even not being used. It is a good idea to actuate 4wd more frequently too.

How is the front axle fluid level? Not sure how that part is failing, or if any of it is lubed with the axle lube… but may be worth making sure it’s at the proper level.

 

[Ozymandias]

By using it they mean drive a couple miles at speed every month in 4x4 and not one truck length once a year - that is not considered use.
You can do that on any more or less straight road, surface does not matter at all.

 

[crazy jerry]

Truck is a 2018 4WD dually Aisin with a grand total of 33k.
In March, 2021 the dealer replaced a part "Actuator-Axle Locker" under warranty. Truck had 22,100 miles at that time. The 4WD feature was never really used from March, 2021 until March, 2023. I did engage it a couple times and drove a truck length or so since I have heard it is a good idea to do so and lubricate everything.
In March.2023 I received the Service 4WD message. Dealer has replaced the same part but this time it is my nickel to the tune of almost $700.
What are the odds that a "Actuator-Axle Locker" part will fail not once but twice in about 11K miles when the system was not really used?
Any experience with this issue.
Kinda looks like I get to look forward to purchasing an expensive part every 11k when I do not even use the 4WD system

you got robbed blind. part is $160 and 10min to replace

most likely they did no diagnosing

my experience with the actuator is its perfectly reliable .
your story just isnt adding up