Electric 4x4 does not work?

I purchased a used 2001 explorer sport 4x4 with only 20,000 miles on it 6 months ago. The 4 wheel drive indicator does not lite up and it will not shift into any 4 wheel drive mode. Whats the problem? I checked all of the fuses or did I?

I am having the same problem. I bought this truck used ( 2002 xls, 45,000miles). Just a few days a ago ( 48,000miles) my rear tires spinned freely in the rain and thats when I noticed I had no 4x4. The 4x4 High does not light up and the 4x4 low does not blink and light up. WEEEE need help. please. I checked all fuses that the owners manual showed with 4x4 label.

Don't know if you have fixed the problem yet but you might want to check the Generic Eletronic Module. I've got a haynes repair manual that says it's behind the radio on 95 thru 2001. Got the manual at auto zone for 20.00. Hope it helps

I got my 4x4 BACK! I don't know for how long but it’s working so far. I disconnected my battery cables (cleaned terminals to occupy time) for a few minutes. After reconnecting everything I did NOT start the car immediately. First turn your ignition a quarter turn until your dash and systems initialize. Allow your gauges to cycle (all the way right then back to zero). I then cranked my truck and my 4x4 high light flashed and I was in business. I tested the 4x4 HIGH and LOW and they worked fine. I did have true 4 wheel drive. So far it has been 2 days and its working fine. I don't know why I had this issue and how long it will continue to work. The "Cold Boot" seemed to reset something internally. It seems it doesn't just work for PCs.

I haven't been able to find the manual at any stores for the 2002. Guess I will have to pay the $8 dollars to get it shipped after I order it.

Thanks for your help

same prob with my 94 xlt 4x4 about 60k ago. push the 4x4 button, nothing happens. ended up being the shift position sensor and motor assembly (they're 1 piece) on the transfer case had burned out. apparently it's a common problem with explorers. the motor is a modified windshield wiper motor. i bought a used shift position sensor for $100, installed it, and now i have 4x4 for the tahoe snow dumps again. hope this helps

Thanks Wootang71,
Gonna buy one since mine is on its way out. I cant keep disconnecting the battery every week.