270-1

270

Transfer Case270

GENERAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-1

TRANSFER CASE SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-3

Transfer case fluid service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270-4Transfer case servomotor, replacing . . . . . . . . 270-5Transfer case, removing and installing . . . . . . 270-6

GENERAL

This repair group covers the all-wheel drive transfer case. Internal transfer case repair is not covered.

The ATC 400 xDrive transfer case, bolted to the rear of the transmission, directs power from the transmission to both the front and rear differentials via driveshafts.

1. Servomotor with position sensor

2. Classification resistor

3. Fastenertighten to 22 Nm (16 ft-lb)

4. Drain / fill plug sealing washer

5. Drain / fill plugtighten to 33 Nm (24 ft-lb)

xDrive includes active torque control (ATC). ATC uses electronics via the VTG control module to control torque split and traction via a multidisc clutch.

VTG (transfer case) control module (A70006) on rear floor panel under luggage compartment trim ahead of battery, passenger side.

For VTG ground and power supplies, see ELE Electrical Wiring Diagrams.

Additional information can also be found in 260 Driveshafts.

270-2 Transfer Case

When the multidisc clutch is open, no driving torque is transmitted to the front axle; instead, the entire driving torque is directed to the rear differential. When the clutch is fully closed, the front and rear axles turn at the same speed.

1. Multidisc clutch

2. Rear driveshaft

3. Adjusting levers with ball ramp

4. Cam disc (driven by servomotor)

5. Front driveshaft

6. Drive (power transfer) chain

The VTG servomotor actuates the multidisc clutch via the cam disc and adjusting levers.

Underneath vehicle at transfer case:

• M8533: xDrive (VTG) servomotor

• R8554: Classification resistor

Transfer Case 270-3

270

TRANSFER CASE SERVICE

The adaptive xDrive transfer case oil wear is monitored by the transfer case (VTG) control module to determine when an oil change is due.

After changing worn transfer case oil, a BMW scan tool should be used to reset transfer case wear adaptations if “54C6 - VTG: Oil wear” fault code is present (including an illuminated 4 x 4 inactive warning lamp).

If the following xDrive driveline conditions/faults are present:

• Drivetrain vibrations, juddering and /or humming noises when traveling at speeds of 50 mph or more (particularly noticeable when coasting);

• Grabbing/juddering or chattering condition under hard acceleration in low gears;

• Vibrations when driving through turns at low speeds.

First check that tires are the same (brand, size, wear/ condition) at all four corners.

Next disconnect the harness connector at the VTG servomotor and test drive vehicle. If the issue is no longer present, change the transfer case fluid and reset the wear values in the VTG control module using a BMW factory scan tool.

If problems persist with new oil and a reset, the issue is likely related to the activation of the clutch in the VTG transfer case and additional transfer case diagnosis and service is required.

If the ABS, BRAKE and 4x4 inactive instrument panel warning lights are simultaneously illuminated and/or the transfer case actuator makes a clicking sound after shutting the engine off, the VTG servomotor is likely faulty.

The cause of this fault can often be traced to a worn or cracked composite gear (arrow) within the servomotor housing. BMW does not sell the gear separately, although an aftermarket gear is available.

Gear (arrow) replacement requires removal and disassembly of the servomotor.

270-4 Transfer CaseTransfer case fluid service

Transfer case fluid service

After performing work on transfer case, check fluid level. Be sure to use correct specification fluid.

– Raise vehicle and support safely.

Remove fill plug (1). Remove drain plug (2) and drain transfer case.

– Install and tighten drain plug using new sealing washer.

Using fluid pump, fill transfer case until fluid begins to drip from lower edge of filler plug (1). Install and tighten fill plug using new sealing washer.

If necessary, reset transfer case wear adaptations using a BMW scan tool and clear fault memory.

CAUTION—• To prevent damaging transfer case, use only the recommended

fluid.

WARNING —• Make sure vehicle is stable and well supported at all times. Use

a professional automotive lift or jack stands. A floor jack is not adequate support.

Transfer case fluid

Capacity• drain and fill• refill

0.69 ltr (0.73 qt)0.80 ltr (0.85 qt)

Specification Transfer case oil TF0870BMW part no. 83 22 0 397 244

Tightening torque

Drain / fill plug to transfer case (M18) 33 Nm (24 ft-lb)

established 1950Automotive Reference™

Bentley Publishers, 1734 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138-1804 USATel: 617-547-4170 • Toll Free: 800-423-4595 • Fax: 617-876-9235http://www.bentleypublishers.com/contact-us

BMW X3 (E83)Service Manual: 2004-20102.5i, 3.0i, 3.0si, xDrive 30i

Bentley Stock Number: BX30Publication Date: 2015.01.26ISBN: 978-0-8376-1731-2Hardcover, 8 3/8 in. x 11 in.Case quantity: 51,066 pages, 1,884 photos, illustrations and diagrams

The BMW X3 (E83) Service Manual: 2004-2010 is a comprehensive source of service information and specifications for the BMW X3 from 2004 to 2010. The aim throughout this manual has been simplicity, clarity and completeness, with practical explanations, step-by-step procedures and accurate specifications. Whether you’re a professional or a do-it-yourself BMW owner, this manual will help you understand, care for and repair your car.

Features:

• Maintenance procedures from changing the xDrive fluids to replacing the cabin microfilter. This manual tells you what to do and how and when to do it.

• Manual and automatic transmission fluid service, front and rear differential service, including xDrive transfer case troubleshooting.

• Step-by-step variable camshaft timing (VANOS) service.• Cylinder head cover gasket and crankshaft seal replacement.• Cooling system, thermostat and radiator service, including

system bleeding using the electric coolant pump on N52 engines.

• Fuel injection and ignition system diagrams and explanations.• Information on advanced technical features such as VANOS,

Valvetronic, xDrive, and DSC (dynamic stability control).• Suspension repair procedures.• Brakes, steering and ABS troubleshooting and repair.• Heating and air-conditioning repair, including A/C component

replacement.• Body and hood repairs and adjustments.• Electrical system service, with an easy-to-use illustrated

component locator section.• Comprehensive wiring schematics, including fuses and

grounds.• BMW OBD II diagnostic trouble codes, SAE-defined

OBD II P-codes, as well as basic scan tool operation.• BMW factory tolerances, wear limits, adjustments and

tightening torques.

Engines covered:

M54 engine: 2.5i, 3.0i (2004–2006)N52 engine: 3.0si, xDrive 30i (2007–2010)

Transmissions covered (remove, install, external service):

Manual: ZF GS6-37BZ (6-speed)

Automatic: GM A5S390R (5-speed) GM GA6L45R (6-speed)

Learn how to change the transfer case fluid and reset xDrive transfer case adaptations.270 Transfer Case

Step-by-step procedures for replacing the crank-case vent valve.130 Fuel Injection (M54 Engine)

BentleyPublishers.com

bentley_bx30_new.product.announcement.pdf

Extensive electrical component location information.ECL Electrical Component Locations