The all-wheel drive transmission is the most important component of an SUV. The ability of the car to overcome sand, swamps, and other natural (and not-so) obstacles depends on its reliability and performance. So, which SUVs can you rely on? The Indianapolis mechanics from Indy Auto Man have selected five all-terrain vehicles one can trust. Check also an enlarged list of the best 4WD SUVs on indyautoman.com.
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler has a spar frame and solid axles in the front and rear. On regular versions, Dana 30 axles are installed in the front, and Dana 35 with a gear ratio of 3.73 in the back. A more prepared Rubicon modification has even stronger Dana 44 axles with locks and a 4.1 final drive.
The transfer case of the Jeep lasts a long time, withstanding more than sixty thousand miles. Questions may arise only about the drives. Due to the design features of the front gearbox, the axle shaft has poor protection from water and dirt. Skillful mechanics can correct the factory defect by replacing the unsuccessful original bushing with an analog with a seal. Such modifications have long been mastered in specialized services.
Toyota Land Cruiser 200
Land Cruiser 200 is not just an SUV but a legend. And in 2024, Toyota returned the updated Land Cruiser to the US market.
As for older generations, the model had some weak points – but this was definitely not an all-wheel drive transmission. Especially, if the previous owner drove carefully and did not neglect regular maintenance.
Otherwise, the backlash of the rear cardan shaft may occur at 60,000 miles, although under normal operation, its resource is at least twice as long. The splined joints of the front cardan shaft wear out a little faster than those of the rear. If you still prefer to drive actively, it is better to grease the cardans every 3,000 miles.
Land Rover Defender
The Defender is a cult car, but controversial. Outstanding off-road capabilities coexist with strange ergonomics, uncomfortable landing, and minor breakdowns of units that should be resourceful and reliable.
Fortunately, the all-wheel drive transmission is not a problem area. The Defender has a permanent all-wheel drive with a central differential lock, and the transfer case on many cars represents the successful LT230 family.
The transfer case mainly suffers from poor sealing. If you do not allow water to get inside, the unit will outlive both the aluminum body and the engine. Sometimes leaks occur, but non-original gaskets and higher-quality bearings solve the problem.
However, the BorgWarner transfer case was also installed on the Defender. It is more complex in design and, alas, not so reliable. It is good that Defenders with it are much less common on sale.
Lexus GX
All GX units and assemblies are reliable, including engines, gearboxes, and the all-wheel drive transmission. One notable feature of the Lexus chain transfer case is its exceptional longevity, particularly in the mechanical components. Therefore, for example, leaks in gearbox seals can be expected only after 120,000 miles.
Around the same time, you can encounter the first problems with the electrics. And the actuator, which is responsible for locking the center differential, can wear out because of the not-very-resourceful plastic gears.
Nissan Armada
Despite the solid interior trim and some near-premium options, the Armada is a real SUV. This car has a transmission designed with a part-time scheme, where the front axle is rigidly connected and there is no interaxle differential in the transfer case. However, if you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, the system works smoothly.
To prevent damage to the transfer case chain, it is recommended to only engage the front axle at low speeds or when driving on a slippery surface. Secondly, the front hubs of the Nissan are connected by semi-automatic clutches, and in serious off-road conditions, they have to be activated manually using a wheel wrench. If you do not do this and forget to renew the grease in the clutches, they will jam, and the Armada will remain in rear-wheel drive.
Steering knuckles and the splines of the cardan shafts also require fresh grease. If you remember about preventive maintenance, the cardans will last at least 120,000 miles. The main transmissions in each bridge are even more durable.
All these SUVs won’t let you down on any road. Their resources are so long that you can safely opt for a used option and invest the money saved in upgrades and special equipment, indispensable during off-road adventures.