Generally the Aussie is very reliable. I have had one in the rear for about 18 months. I have used it hard twice in the granite of the Sierras on some famous trails including the Fordyce trail. The only complaint I had was coming back from the last trip to Fordyce it was disengaging on the highway and reengaging causing the rear to shift. I took it apart when I got back and couldn't find anything wrong with it. I though I had beveled the teeth, but couldn't find it. I turned the halves around and reinstalled and had no trouble since. I since installed an Aussie front, but haven't tried it out yet. And yes they will give you some problems on snow and ice.