2000 4Runner - 4wd actuator

My 2000 4Runner has 85K miles and I took it in for some body repair to have it returned with the 4WD engaged and it will not disengage. Was advised to take it to a dealership for diagnosis. Dealer said 4WD actuator failed and $2300 to replace ($950 for actuator and $1110+) for labor. Are there known problems with this device? Is this a common problem with 4Runners?

Thanks for suggestions and comments.

Chris

In case you didn't know - having the actuator always on only means you have engaged the front propellor shaft. You are not in 4WD. The transfer case is still in 2WD unless the shifter is stuck in the 4WD position. The shifter engages the transfer caes and it still takes you in and out of 4WD.

I bet you can find a used actuator in a junk yard for cheap and install it yourself. You might be able to remove the actuator and free it up.

I have not heard of this problem previously in this vehicle, but that doesn't mean too much.