97 Qx4 4wd Light and check engine light

[warthawgg]

Hello, im new to the site. I tried using the search function but i keeps saying it failed.

I just had my father in law change out the AC compressor for a unit we bought in autozone. I havent seen the car in a couple days but when he was finished, the AC is nice and cold. Unfortunately the car now has the service engine light and the 4WD light is also on. I took the truck out for a spin and it seems(feels) like its running in permanent 4WD mode. I have the switch on the dash (for 2wd, awd, 4wd) but it just makes a sound and doesnt make a difference. There is the little "representation" of the wheels with light on the instrument gauge that usually illuminates to show which drive mode you are in. right now all those lights are off. (note: the lights still work because when you start the truck the lights briefly turn on)

also when i first turn the truck on the O/D light flashes a few times.

The manuals say the take it for service immediately if the 4WD light is on.

any ideas?

P.S. my father in law likes to take a hose to the engine bay and wash things out. could he have shorted a sensor or fuse?

[MinisterofDOOM]

I would take the car to the dealer or to your favorite autoparts store and have them check for trouble codes. Once we know what codes are being thrown, we'll have a much better idea of what the problem is.

[NISTECH]

First make sure all conditions are right to exit awd. Make sure all 4 tires are at equal pressures, set the switch 2 2wd then back up in a straight line about 20'. It should then exit 4wd. If it doesnt then proceed to get codes pulled.

To tell if it is actually in awd make a full lock turn on dry asphault. If it feels like the brakes are applied while making the turn and/or the tires are "scrubbing" you are definitly in awd. Dont continue to do this if you are in awd as it will tear up the drive train. about half a circle you will definitly be able to tell if your in awd

[warthawgg]

Its ok, guys. We looked around the engine bay and it turned out to be one of the connections on the throttle body was loose..... strange that it caused the 4wd error though.

[AlabamaDan]

I know this is an old thread, but wanted to say that a quick search turned it up and it was exactly the solution to my problem. Thanks!