When backing up my driveway (slight hill) recently in snowy conditions I noticed a grinding like sound coming from the center of the vehicle in the front end when in 2WD. The vehicle is a 2012 STX with 4WD (but it was not enaged). I suspect the rear wheels may have been slipping but the noise was in the front, not the back end. Is this normal? If so, what is it? Thanks!

 

https://www.f150online.com/forums/ar...then-some.html

 

Thank you. Read that article before posting and it is informative up to the point where I do not understand the connection. This is in 2WD on a brand new vehicle (< 3000 miles). Are you implying that I have a vacuum issue that is causing the 4WD to slip in? If not then then technical side may be beyond me.

 

Could it have been the traction/stability control cutting in and out?