Nissan Xterra front axles attempt to engage 4 wheel drive automatically in cold weather on Nissan Xterra

Some Nissan Xterra owners report experiencing issues with the automatic engagement of 4-wheel drive in cold weather, particularly related to the front axles and transfer case. These problems can arise if the brushes in the motor of the pinion gear box stick due to infrequent use, leading to improper engagement of 4WD. Additionally, operating the vehicle with tires of different sizes can put extreme stress on the gearing in the transfer case, potentially causing driveline issues. To mitigate these risks, it is crucial for owners to perform regular maintenance and checks on the transfer case, front axles, and associated components to ensure proper functionality, especially during colder conditions.