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 kind of fluid goes in a transfer case?
Transfer cases may be filled with gear oil, automatic transmission fluid (ATF), or specialty lubricants. It is important to regularly inspect the transfer case for any damage, leaks, or other concerns.
How often should transfer case fluid be changed BMW?
Although they say their “lifetime fluid” never needs to be replaced, it should be at around 50,000 miles. Changing the fluids this often will ensure a long service life for all of these components as well as increase the quality of your vehicle’s overall driving experience.
Does a BMW X3 have a transfer case?
Because it has all-wheel-drive, the X3 is built with a transfer case, which assists in moving power from the transmission to the rear and front axles. Like all new things, the X3 has been known to have transfer case problems, especially in the ones released in the first two years, 2004 and 2005.
Is transfer case fluid same as ATF?
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.
Can I put gear oil in my transfer case?
What are the symptoms of low transfer case fluid?
Strange Grinding, Growling or Humming Noises If you hear grinding, growling, or humming noises that change with your vehicle speed, it may be coming from the transfer case. This could indicate a low fluid level or some mechanical problem such as bad bearings, loose chains or damaged gears.
What happens if you don’t change your transfer case fluid?
When the transfer case fluid is not replaced for a long time, it may lose its ability to properly lubricate the gears inside. This can lead to premature wear on the transfer case itself, resulting in a potentially expensive repair.
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.
Is a transfer case flush necessary?
If the fluid runs low or becomes contaminated, it can lead to failure of the differential. To avoid this issue, it is recommended that the transfer case fluid be changed periodically, normally every 30,000 miles, especially in vehicles that tow or use four-wheel drive often.
How long does a BMW transfer case last?
The transfer case itself apparently wears out after 100k miles or so, especially without oil changes.
How much should it cost to replace transfer case fluid?
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.
How do you change the fluid in a BMW X3 transfer case?
What is the purpose of transfer case in BMW X3?
The transfer case is responsible for dividing the drive from the engine and sending it to all four wheels, rather than just two. Transfer case designs differ between makes, but all are designed to add another two wheels of drive at the push of a button or pull of a lever.
How much does it cost to fix transfer case at BMW?
Labor costs are estimated between $169 and $213 while parts are priced between $1,523 and $1,600. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific model year or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
Does it matter what ATF you use?
Car transmissions are delicate mechanisms. Some transmission fluids are very incompatible with different transmission types as they use different additives in the fluids. Your car transmission needs the correct fluid, as specified by your car manufacturer, to run correctly and to the fullest length of life.
What goes in between transfer case and transmission?
Usually the gaskets between the transmission and the transfer case are known as the transfer case gasket or the transfer case adapter gasket. The gasket may be listed as the type of transfer case and then followed by the words adapter and gasket.
What transfer case fluid is blue?
ACDelco Auto-Trak II Transfer Case Fluid, (Blue) 1 Liter Bottle.
What maintenance does a transfer case need?
The transfer case is serviced by periodically draining its fluid and replacing it with fresh fluid. We also check for leaks and damage. Transfer case fluid cools and lubricates the gears, chains, bearings, shafts and other parts. Over time, the additives in the fluid wear out and it doesn’t protect as well.
What are the symptoms for a bad transfer case on a BMW?
- Fluid Leaks. All cars including BMWs utilize various fluids that perform different functions for the engine and other systems, such as brake and coolant fluids.
- Odd or unusual noises coming from the engine.
- Gear-shifting troubles.
How do I check my transfer case fluid level?
Locate the oil fill plug on the transfer case. Remove the top oil fill plug. Using a flashlight, check for oil at the fill plug hole. When full, the oil should be just below the top hole.
Can a transfer case damage a transmission?
Can Bad Transfer Case Damage the Transmission? There are instances where a catastrophic transfer case failure can damage other parts of your vehicle, including the transmission. It’s always a good idea to address any known issues with your vehicle as soon as possible to avoid additional problems.
How long do transfer cases last?
There is no set time or mileage. We’ve heard of transfer case where they only last 6,000 miles (rare) and others that have lasted over 300,000 miles. Your driving habits and how closely you follow recommended maintenance procedures are the deciding factors. That is why it’s so important to get a good warranty.
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.
Is transfer case and differential the same thing?
The transfer case acts like a differential, but channels power to the two differentials on different axles rather than to two wheels on the same axle. As in a gearbox, a differential and transfer case require fluid to lubricate the gears, shafts and bearings where metal slides over metal.