4WD light doesn't light up

[Jeep5111]

Hello fellow jeepers. After two years without a Jeep I pulled the trigger to get in the seat of a 98 TJ. My first stick shift. When I put the Jeep in 4WD the orange dash light doesn’t light up. Does that mean 4wd isn’t working? They sold me a non 4x4 or the light could be burnt out. I’ll be honest I didn’t buy it from the most reputable dealer. So any honest facts are very welcomed!

 

[thomat65]

Put the transfer case lever in 4hi or 4lo and drive in a tight circle on pavement. You should feel it bind up and act like it doesn't want to move, and maybe you'll get a little tire skipping if you keep going. That means 4wd is working regardless of the light.

Welcome to the forum!

 

[Jeep5111]

Put the transfer case lever in 4hi or 4lo and drive in a tight circle on pavement. You should feel it bind up and act like it doesn't want to move, and maybe you'll get a little tire skipping if you keep going. That means 4wd is working regardless of the light.

Welcome to the forum!

Thanks! I will give it a shot tomorrow

 

[AndyG]

Could be as simple as a bulb, sending unit , wire or bad connection .

Lube the linkage under the tub , it's basically under the driver's seat, and locate the sending unit..there is a diagram for wiring on here.

Don't Fret, you will need to sort out a few bugs .

 

[Apparition]

Could be the little switch on the transfer case, I had to replace mine. Got a new one on Amazon.

 

[PJOJeep]

If 4-wheel drive is working and the light does not come, it is most likely the switch on the transfer case. I have a 2000 and replacing the switch solved that problem. Not likely the bulb, as it is not really lit that much.

 

[Jeep5111]

Thanks all!!!

 

[Flivver250]

If 4-wheel drive is working and the light does not come, it is most likely the switch on the transfer case. I have a 2000 and replacing the switch solved that problem. Not likely the bulb, as it is not really lit that much.

+1 ↑

 

[Rickwhoo]

On my 05 TJ the 4WD light does not work. I jumped the 2 wires on the switch and the light goes on. I removed the switch to try and clean it and it still won't work. I guess I need a new switch. Who sells them?

 

[Apparition]

On my 05 TJ the 4WD light does not work. I jumped the 2 wires on the switch and the light goes on. I removed the switch to try and clean it and it still won't work. I guess I need a new switch. Who sells them?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001C6N6J8/?tag=wranglerorg-20

 

[Rickwhoo]

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001C6N6J8/?tag=wranglerorg-20

A lot of people are saying to avoid Dorman with this switch... Found one at Advanced Auto with a lifetime warranty for only $11.99

 

[Apparition]

A lot of people are saying to avoid Dorman with this switch... Found one at Advanced Auto with a lifetime warranty for only $11.99

I believe mine is a Dorman and it works and has for a few years. But it could be a crapshoot.