So I bought a 2007 H3 for my daughter. Shes been driving it for about 2 weeks. It has a 6 inch or so lift and 36 inch tires I think. Oversized anyway. Well, we didnt understand the 4X4 buttons on the dash (lock and lo) and we had it in the lock position this whole time. She mostly does highway driving and to and from school. Well yesterday, the axle broke. Long story short, we now know the difference. My question is this: Besides the axle, what other damage could we have done? :

 

Likely some worn stuff in transfer

 

I agree with BruceS. Stretched transfer case chain. The location of the light on the H3's is bad. I drove around for a few miles in the 4 lock position without knowing. The engineers should have put a light on the instrument cluster or something in the message center.

 

when i bought mine i put in a flashing led in any lock mode. alsp added a kill switch .hidden, so only i can engage lock modes.
led right above speedo, cant miss.

 

I'd agree that the OEM default should have been a msg or light to notify position.
Lady friend drove for entire weekend with hers in 4 lock... Big clunk and shudder... That can't be good. Ha ha!
I'd say check your differential and other front components, plus keep a close eye on transfer case.
If your h3 still is running, moving I'd just keep going.
Chris

 

First I would have her read the owners manual from front to back.