Center Diff Issues
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 2,198
Likes: 43
From: Scottsdale, AZ
Mercedes
Center Diff Issues
I have a 2007 G55. I decided one day to try and use the diff lock buttons on the dash for the first time, they probably have not been used in a long time before that. Everything seemed to engage just fine, and drive fine in gravel with them engaged. I was able to disengage all three but drove a few blocks and then a loud noise came from under the car and it seemed like the car was in neutral. Even when in park, the car would still roll. If I engage the center lock diff then I could drive the car normally. If I tried to disengage the center lock diff, it would do the same thing where the car would appear to be a neutral and still roll even when in Park, and how to use the handbrake, otherwise the car would roll away. So far I tried to change the transfer case Fluid and tried to replace the center lock solenoid in the engine bay and I’m out of ideas. Has anyone had something similar happened to them or have some recommendations? I appreciate it!!
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2025
Posts: 784
Likes: 251
From: USA
Sounds like a classic transfer case actuator failure. It's a common issue on these trucks.
The actuator's plastic gears are probably stripped. It's stuck between gears, which is why it only works when the diff is locked. You'll need to replace the actuator unit on the transfer case itself.
The actuator's plastic gears are probably stripped. It's stuck between gears, which is why it only works when the diff is locked. You'll need to replace the actuator unit on the transfer case itself.
