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.
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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.
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 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.
Where is the water pump located on a BMW X3?

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.
How long does it take a mechanic to replace a transfer case?
Expect the installation to take 1 to 2 days.
What can cause a transfer case to break?
Typically, a transfer case will fail due to a low fluid level (caused by leaks), lack of maintenance, or regular wear from use. It’s important to address fluid leaks right away (as soon as you discover one) to prevent internal transfer case damage. Changing the transfer case fluid on a regular basis is also important.
Does transfer case affect transmission?
A transfer case is part of the drive-train (this includes four-wheel drive, all wheel drive, and other multiple powered axle vehicles). Specifically, this mechanism shifts power from the transmission to the front and rear axles with the power of the drive shaft.
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.
Can you drive with a bad transfer case control module?
Driving with a bad transfer case can lead to series of significant mechanical problems. One of the common problems of the transfer case is a fluid leak. There’s a seal between the transfer case and the transmission, and if that seal goes bad, it will cause an internal or external transmission fluid leak.
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 change a water pump on a BMW X3?
Taking all these points into consideration, you can expect to pay anywhere from $375 to $787 (including parts and labor). Of course, shopping around to get a few quotes is your best bet to get the best deal. For more water pump information, read our article Does My Car Need a New Water Pump?
Where is the water pump on a 2008 BMW X3?

How long does it take to change a water pump on a BMW?
4-6 hours is about right.
How often should transfer case fluid be changed BMW?
We recommend performing the transfer box oil change every 60,000 miles.
Should I replace transfer case fluid?
Most mechanics recommend that you replace the transfer case fluid once every 50,000 km. However, the average life of the transfer case fluid depends on how your vehicle is used. If you regularly tow large loads or put other forms of stress on your transfer case, the fluid should be inspected regularly.
How often should you change BMW differential fluid?
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.
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 long do BMW transfer case last?
The transfer case itself apparently wears out after 100k miles or so, especially without oil changes.
What does 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 much does a transfer case usually cost?
Replacing a transfer case assembly could cost over $2,500 for parts and labor. If you have a bad transfer case, you should stop driving your vehicle immediatelyโit could lead to further damage to the transfer case and other parts of your vehicle like the transmission.
How much does transfer case service cost?
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.
Is it hard 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.
Is transmission fluid and transfer case fluid the same?
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.