A mechanic will be able to complete a transfer case fluid replacement, which is used in four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles to ensure the axles are cool and turning smoothly. It should be replaced every 30,000 miles and usually costs $75 to $160.
Table of Contents
How do I know if my BMW transfer case is bad?
- Shifting Issues.
- Hard to stay in 4WD?
- 4WD Won’t Engage or Disengage.
- Fluid Puddle Under the Transfer Case’s Location.
- Strange Grinding, Growling or Humming Noises.
- Possible Causes of a Bad Transfer Case.
How much does it cost to replace a BMW transfer case?
The average cost for a BMW X3 transfer case shift motor replacement is between $1,634 and $1,801. Labor costs are estimated between $166 and $209 while parts are priced between $1,468 and $1,592.
How long do BMW transfer cases last?
The transfer case itself apparently wears out after 100k miles or so, especially without oil changes.
How do I reset my BMW transfer case?
The easiest reset is using ISTA. Scan the vehicle and then select “vehicle management” tab then select “service functions” then go to “Power train” then select ” Transfer box/ transmission control” then select “repair.” Click on display and this service function will take you through the transfer case reset.
Can you still drive with a bad transfer case?
Should you drive your car with a bad transfer case? Driving your car with a bad transfer case is a bad idea. If you continue to drive with a transfer case that has a serious mechanical problem, you could destroy it beyond the point of repair, and possibly damage your transmission, driveshafts and axles in the process.
What happens when transfer case goes bad?
When your transfer case goes bad, your car might jump in and out of 4-wheel drive on its own. This indicates an inability to stay in a drive mode which can damage the transfer case, other systems on the vehicle, or cause an unsafe driving situation.
How much does it cost to replace a transfer case on a BMW X5?
The average cost for a BMW X5 transfer case shift motor replacement is between $1,693 and $1,813. Labor costs are estimated between $169 and $213 while parts are priced between $1,523 and $1,600.
How long does it take a mechanic to replace a transfer case?
Expect the installation to take 1 to 2 days.
How many hours does it take to replace a transfer case?
Labor guide says replace front part of transfer case is 5.2 hours, rear part of transfer case 3.0 hours.
Can a BMW transfer case be repaired?
The transfer case actuator motor is a small motor that is bolted onto the transfer case and can be removed and replaced (or repaired with a new internal gear).
How hard is it to replace a transfer case?
Replacing the transfer case will take a couple of hours, and it’s a heavy part. It’s important to go in knowing exactly what to do and how to do it right. We have some tips for you: To remove the driveshafts, you may want box end wrenches.
How much fluid is in a BMW transfer case?
The transfer case has drain and fill plugs for easy servicing and this should be part of your proactive approach to vehicle service. The transfer case will take just under 1 liter of fluid so only one bottle is required.
What does a transfer case actuator do?
TRANSFER CASE ACTUATOR The GM Genuine Original Equipment Transfer Case Actuators are electric motors that perform transfer case shifting in electronically controlled four-wheel drive systems. They are located on the outside of the four-wheel drive transfer case housing.
How does a BMW transfer box work?
BMW xDrive is a full-time all-wheel drive system with the transfer case being the core component. The transfer case works by directing power from the transmission to both the front and rear differentials. xDrive can make a trip on snowy roads an easier time on you and your car.
What does a failing transfer case sound like?
If you hear a grinding, growling, or humming noise that changes with vehicle speed, it might be coming from the transfer case. The root cause could be low fluid level or a mechanical problem, such as a loose chain, bad bearings, or damaged gears.
How do you test a transfer case?
Switch on the ignition and observe the transfer case shift control indicators, you should notice a flash. You also need to diagnose some system circuits if you do not notice any flash. Check for battery and ignition voltage. Check the transfer case shift control switch connector and the ground circuit for earth.
How do I know if my transfer case needs oil?
- Difficulty changing gears โ Low or dirty transfer case fluid can affect your transmission’s ability to shift gears.
- Loud noises while driving โ As the transfer case fluid loses its lubricating properties, friction will occur inside.
What would cause a transfer case to break?
The most common and general cause of cracked transmission cases is when fluid pipes get damaged. The gear seal on your transmission case is intended to keep the hydraulic fluid from pouring out. However, if it begins to spill due to a shaft seal break, it will create significant transfer and gear shifting issues.
Can a transfer case lock up?
Some vehicles, such as all-wheel-drive sports cars, have transfer cases that are not selectable. Such a transfer case is permanently “locked” into all-wheel-drive mode.
What can break a transfer case?
This could result from a fluid leak through the shaft seal located on the transfer case. The shaft seal is designed to prevent oil leaks from the transfer case, but this seal could break or weaken due to prolonged use or collisions while driving.
What is BMW transfer case?
The transfer case in BMW 4×4 vehicle is what gives the vehicle its namesake capability. The transfer case is responsible for dividing the drive from the engine and sending it to all four wheels, rather than just two.
Does transfer case and transmission share fluid?
Most transfer cases are filled with an automatic transmission fluid, which is usually red in colour. Others use a thicker gear oil, and some use a specialized fluid that is specifically made just for that transfer case.
Is a transfer case the same as a transmission?
No. A transmission is used primarily to multiply engine torque at lower vehicle speeds, as well as provide a reverse gear. A transfer case is usually but not always attached directly to the transmission’s output, and is used to supply torque to both front and rear drive axles.
How much does it cost to rebuild transfer case?
Replacing a transfer case is an expensive repair that usually costs anywhere from $2,300 to $2,900. Most people end up paying around $2,500 to replace a transfer case, but the total price may be slightly more or less depending on the vehicle.