3 Series BMW Transfer Case Actuator Motor Replacement 4X4! e90 x3 335xi 535xi 135xi xi

[@JAMAEL89]

Dude. Did it. Could not get long bolt out. Exhaust in way. After some time of contemplation. Realized that I had enough room to squeeze out transfer case. Popped in the replacement and all good. I’m a very happy 328xi driver now. A million thank you. Long live Ed!!!!

[@monicam8266]

Were you getting only the 4x4! sign or the brake and ABS as well, mine switches between 4x4! and all 3, thank you I have a 328xi 2008

[@ericmiller5470]

@@monicam8266 i am getting ready to do this tomorrow if my part shows up! I have the same lights on! Did it fix yours?

[@mattdaue4527]

Very thorough instructions, easy to follow. As also mentioned in the video, only had some trouble aligning the transfer case bracket. It should easily slide back into place if it is moved back and forth. The video was extremely helpful in navigating some of the more difficult parts. Thanks!

[@timdeng7303]

Any other tips for aligning the transfer case bracket, I'm stuck at this part

[@simplelangperorock]

very intimidating part to fix in BMWs AWDs/xDrives. you made the job easier and less intimidating. great job.

[@antonioelpro]

Legend has it, he still needs gas till this day

[@chazmataz25]

For anyone struggling to get that long 18mm bolt back in - I found it easiest to remove the clamp/bracket holding the exhaust right next to transfer case mount (you can’t miss it - two E11 bolts). Then jack up the exhaust with a floor jack or pole jack a little to get it out of your way. Allow the transfer case to sag a bit so it’s below the exhaust, and do not install any of the 13mm bolts. Slide 18mm in (I put my gun on it and spun it in, it went right in just be careful not to cross thread).

[@THEOGGUNSHOW]

Good job on the car and video. Thanks for uploading. I'm about to tackle mine now. My 2008 BMW 328XI has me spoiled on using the cruise control and I love my XDrive system. Also, I wish I'd known 3 years ago, when I bought her from my Brother that the barely discernable grinding noise, which progressively got louder was because of this. It's really loud and annoying now.

[@joechambers09]

I changed out the actuator motor and put everything back together and there was no change so i tested the old motor and realized it still works so what else could be causing the 4x4! Light and all four wheels not to engage? Can anyone help

[@zx8401ztv]

Smashing job Ed, should be fixed for a loooooong time now :-). This is where your new workshop comes into its own, inside from the weather, and a beautifull car lift to make it much nicer for you :-D, i hope you had some minimal heating. That unit has a similar looking motor to electric windows and a smart car electric clutch servo, possibly the same power. I really love that display backlighting, good colour and just the right intensity :-D.

[@edzgarage]

Yes, the lift is soooo much nicer than laying on the floor. This job would have been a lot more challenging without the lift. I do have a wood burning stove for heat, and by next weekend we should have a natural gas heater pumping in the warmth. I agree on the IP lighting it's nearly perfect.

[@schro3532]

Thank you for the video, perfect and thorough explanation. I am going to be doing this job now getting closer too winter here in michigan and you made it look very proper thank you!

[@garygrenier]

Thanks for this! Great Tutorial! I have an E92 335xi in my care that needs this fix. Easy Peasy!!

[@josephdimond820]

Stupid question but when the 4 wheel drive isn’t working what’s working the front or rear wheels?

[@montydaniels1054]

He said his rear is only working.

[@kevinfraser640]

Can you tell us the torquing spec for the 3 transfer case motor bolts? Thank you great video

[@JAMAEL89]

Great video. To the point. Ordered part and will be replacing durning weekend. Will update afterwards.

[@joemwangi5302]

Did you fix

[@deadeye4256]

Should i disconnect the battery before j work on this?

[@juliabradanesi9881]

Just did this job today. I struggled a bunch with that one big bolt. The key is to do that one first and don't be afraid to pull down on the transfer case to buy yourself some more clearance past the exhaust pipe.

[@flyingbatfish]

The fix went well for me, too. But the big bolt is kicking my ass! To line up the bolt, you have to lift the whole unit up with a bottle jack. BUT, then the exhaust pipe is in the way by about 1/2". Back at it tomorrow, will try a couple more times. If I fail at that, then dropping the friggin' exhaust to access the bolt. My exhaust is definitely tighter than what's in this video. By the way, great video. I appreciate the time and effort. BMW's are fun to drive, but they suck for reliability. Back to Toyota's for me! Cheers, all.

[@timdeng7303]

​@@flyingbatfish Did u manage to line up the big bolt?

[@speed-kills9935]

Hearing same noise but getting abs dsc and emerg brake malfunction along with 4x4. Would it still be the actuator

[@speed-kills9935]

328i2008

[@asimkhan8620]

Yes I believe it is your transfer case actuator, specifically a worn plastic gear inside that the worm gear touches.

[@20pcnuggetosrs]

did you find out? I have the same problem but the other guys comment is wrong because the gear and worm gear are metal in our cars. The plastic ones are in the X models like X3/X5 and stuff.

[@Mcalltype]

Thank you for this video. I have a 320i xDrive. It started to shift hard, and I took it to the BMW dealership. I was told that the Transfer case has a problem and the problem goes away when they unplug the connector. Is the problem from the motor actuator? I was told that I need to replace the whole transfer case.

[@emoneybagsthedon]

*Anyone saying the bolt hits the exhaust*. Loosen that bolt first but remove all the other bolts. Then use a punch to move the bolt as far back as possible. Then wiggle transfer case and bolt will come out without ever touching exhaust. Install bolt the opposite way. Much easier

[@xoticbeats3602]

So do we need to refill the transfer case with transfer case fluid? Might as well right ?

[@Lynx196.9]

Props for posting this

[@IHcubcadet]

Nicely done! Now about that gas issue! Wish i could fix that on my car!

[@edzgarage]

LOL if I get a permanent fix for the gas problem I'll let you know.

[@dylanmchale4662]

@@edzgarage hi my actuator is bad on my 2009 bmw 535i but can I still drive it they say my csr will just be in rear wheel drive only

[@cheehoo]

Will the grinding ruin the transmission?

[@kag297]

Did you have to program yours in?

[@SaiPhet]

Mine turned on today. When I make a sharp turn when the 4x4 light isn’t on the car has a hard time turning but when that 4x4 finally light finally comes on it will finally turn.

[@eliasdiaz2634]

Fixed my fiancé’s 325xi AWD same problem!

[@saistylezwigartistry1616]

My 4x4 light is on only time I hear grinding is when I try to turn and the car struggle to make the turn but that’s only a few seconds within starting the car and after my car drive fine. Do you think it’s my transfer motor as well?

[@patfrabotta9912]

What brand did you buy? BMW or something different?

[@yasserelsergany2331]

Thank you for the great explain I have a question if you please. My 320xd 2009 have same problem .I changed the servo motor and the battery I control the fuis or ok but still have the problem withe the ABS and the 4x4thanks on advance for your answers

[@montydaniels1054]

@EdzGarage . Ed, I wonder if that's what could be the issue with the 2010 Jeep Patriot I have. Although I wiggled that grounding strap that goes from the engine to the body & the 4WD! Light was off the next 2 times I drove the Jeep, if it does come back on, could it be the same type of part that's bad as with your BMW? The Patriot stays in FWD whenever the 4WD! Light is on, so that's how they're set up. Thx, MD

[@jarodr74]

I have an 06 e90 330xi, my abs light and 4x4 light are on and the code coming up is the 5f3a code (transfer case), would this issue cause both the abs and 4x4 lights to illuminate?

[@05kittycat1]

Its Prism did you ever figure out what was wrong?

[@montydaniels1054]

I know that it does mean that there's an issue. Like our Tucson, when the Battery Light & Brake Light come on, it means the Regulator inside the Alternator, so it's not charging the battery more than 12.6 volts........

[@abrahamhungria4838]

Did you figure this out?

[@jarodr74]

@@abrahamhungria4838 yeah, I had to replace the entire transfer case and servo motor.

[@PABU427]

+EdzGarage How would I be able to differentiate if its the servo motor or the actual transfer case?

[@ganapathipentu1152]

After replacing new part and running 3-4 miles again getting 4x4 error…. Is this something battery issue? Please advise

[@patswazent]

hi, did you have to perform any software reset or calibration, its just plug and play ? the new unit will adjust itself and "learn" the new position ? thanks very much.

[@edzgarage]

Yes, mine was plug and play.

[@patswazent]

@@edzgarage thanks for the prompt reply Ed

[@ebaksboy]

Hi mr. Ed do you have a video hiw to take out or reset abs light on 2007 328xi on dashboard?

[@tristanpoirier8174]

Car jumps forward when put into park not sure what’s going on but I do have all wheel drive now

[@SkellyGrog]

What size are the 3 spline bolts holding it to the transfer case?

[@joemac300]

Extremely helpful. Thanks

[@Joselopez-eo5br]

Thanks for the video is really helpful I'm going to tackle the same job like right now . Thanks again

[@TalonZ33]

I have 07 328xi and will be doing this soon. I keep seeing people mention having to "reset system" because of new resistor, but not saying much else . Do you know if this necessary and if so does it require a scanner?

[@ericmiller5470]

Have you completed this yet? I am doing mine tomorrow if part shows up, did all your lights go out? I have 4x4 abs and brake light on

[@asimkhan8620]

@@ericmiller5470 did you replace the TC actuator? Was it a successful fix? Thanks

[@lowsuit7059]

did you fix it?

[@b-rad845]

Quick question for you sometimes when I turn right or left and Accelerate it bucks on me so then I let off the gas and then go and it’s fine was wondering if that was any indication of the all wheel drive setup and what would cause this I have no lights coming up at all hmmm lol it’s a 2007 328xi please help

[@TowProVlogs]

🤦🏻‍♂️ Thank god, i thought it was time ti get rid of my e90 😂 seems like i can fix this myself

[@tomas64000]

Hello, what about the re calibrate of the parts ?

[@nelsonweisberg2753]

Could this part also cause a grinding noise ? I’m hearing on 1st to 2nd gear 1k-1500 rpm

[@lospitufos8890]

Yes it can, however its best to check your computer. It usually is able to detect the issue and turn off the actuator motor leaving you with a 4×4 light and loss of power

[@djverhulst]

Pretty easy fix , Good job Ed ! Do you use winter tyres ?

[@edzgarage]

No, I don't use winter tires on this car since it's all wheel drive, I did use them on the old e46 since it was just rear wheel drive.

[@djverhulst]

I think winter tyre for a 4wd all so beter, your brakes work on the same on 2wd and 4 wd

[@miarenata1231]

EdzGarage hi sr. can you tell me wish codes you have ,couse i have the same 4x4 ! light on

[@marcusmarine4144]

Thank you ed 😉💰your A life saver 👏👏👏

[@kamalnasseree9795]

Ed I need to change mine as well, once changed and bolted on do you need to reprogram it?

[@gulledjama8986]

Yes sir

[@foreignexclusives3763]

No coding necessary for motor swap ?

[@user-pt1qx3gj9h]

after I swapped my engine I have all the dash lights on including the 4x4 even tho awd works still,how do I clear all the lights I cant find anything no where?i tried almost everything.

[@miarenata1231]

hi , i know this is old but i will like to know wich codes you get.? couse i have the same 4x4! light on.

[@MrKillerhaze]

Question I took mine to the dealer and they said I need a new transfer case on my 09 335ix I don’t have any lights on my dash the only problem I’m having is when turning the steering wheels all the way it makes a weird noise but only when I’m trying to park or do a U turn but besides that the car drives fine to me just can’t turn at very low speeds please help I wanted to know if I just disconnect the sensors if the problem would go away cause I’m find driving my car rear wheels anyways I have xDelete so is already rear wheel drive but is making this noise when turning or making a u turn.

[@davidalexander4373]

Wow what a great video! Thanks for taking the time to make a short tutorial about it. Quick question! This should be similar to a 06 BMW 330xi right? I wouldn't think it would be different, but just asking in case. Looking at one on craigslist with the exact problem and it's a steal for $1,500 and supposedly throwing the same code.

[@edzgarage]

If it's not the exact same repair it should be very similar. $1500 is a steal for an 06 330xi.

[@davidalexander4373]

Thank you for the response! Love your videos.

[@davidmendoza60]

i replaced that part in mine bmw 2007 530xi but when i start to driving it, the lights comes back ! any suggestion?

[@doogiehowser1124]

i have the same car! so how did you fix it?

[@RsGamerPro]

i dont know if this channel still active but i would love to get an answer, so i put difference size tires (noob mistake) and messed up my transfer case, i went to a mechanic and he charged me 60$ to take it out, now i need to put a new one in and they charging me beetween 1200 and 1600, would love to know if by doing what was done in this video i can get that done by myself and the car would be fixed or theres something else to be replaced, i drove the car after from the mechanic to my house no problems, when mine broke there was liquid coming out and some metal little balls came out too, so if i could get any help here i would gladly appreciate it.

[@alexadams2493]

How do you know if it's the transfer case motor actuator, or the transfer case gears themselves that are making noise?

[@ronaldslager1714]

Did u find out???? Please tell

[@dustsettler4596]

This signal popped up in the middle of driving, how is this possible? I understand that the actuator doesn't work upon starting the car, but how does the 4X4! problem pop up suddenly when I'm going in a straight line on the highway?

[@asimkhan8620]

@Dust Settler was it just the 4x4! light or was it the triad of lights including ABS and DTC? If it was only the 4x4! light that came on while driving, you might have a faulty steering angle sensor.

[@dustsettler4596]

@@asimkhan8620 hard to remember since it was a whole year ago but I think yes it was just the 4x4!. It never happened again since.

[@thomasbriscoe198]

That's great Ed, Thanks for sharing! I am having this same issue but the dealer wanted $5400 to replace the transfer case and servo motor. I am thinking I should start here with this motor and see if that fixes the problem. Thoughts?

[@edzgarage]

Wow... there are 5000 reasons to try the servo motor first. I bet that's all your problem is. Good luck!

[@franciscoecheverria2382]

@@edzgarage hi do you have the codes for this.

[@alexg8460]

It doesnt throw codes only griding when you try to take off or stop right away

[@DjDeanB]

@@alexg8460 would it be the servo motor if I experience jerking at very low speeds and light acceleration?

[@thevisionary2927]

For the 4x4 lights being constantly on on BMW X5 E53 2006 , does it mean the 4x4 is not working and its only running on 2 wheels? Is this something that can leave me stranded on the road? What is the impact of this error? Please guide. Thanks

[@Shamus71]

Have you changed your transfer case fluid yet? If so, did you have to reset the adaptation with a code scanner?

[@edzgarage]

I haven't replaced the fluid yet. Most codes are resettable through the car's computer without a scanner.

[@scottkucinski4967]

Mine is doing this too plus abs but in the snow the 4x4 seems to still work I'm stumped

[@elboogie7248]

I've done everything as demonstrated except the I put the 18mm bolt backwards cause it was alot easier that way. When I drive my 328xi coupe now the 4x4 light is off but when I take hard turns I feel the 4x4 engaging and disengaging and it feel clunky and not right at all. Is it because I put the bolt backwards or because I bought a ebay part? Someone please help before I take it to the pro's and they charge me a arm and a leg lol

[@greggmon6237]

Did u have to drain the oil? And did u use the new or the old resistor?

[@mynameis309]

No need to drain oil, and use the old resistor since it has been calibrate at your cars system.

[@foreignexclusives3763]

Can the transfer case cause the transmission fault light to come on and stay stuck in park also my cluster does not recognize ANY gear it’s just blank it doesn’t say it’s in park or anything

[@edzgarage]

I don't think so. You have another problem.

[@n54anaya79]

Did you ever figure out the problem? I’m wondering the same thing

[@foreignexclusives3763]

DIY Lifestyle sadly I did not bmw is still stuck sitting there in park same problem

[@lowsuit7059]

does anyone know if you have to program the motor?

[@albertonunez851]

Simple and effective. Thank you.

[@nawazyube]

thanks for a such a nice and helpful video. I see that you removed the long bolt at 2:35 so easily but mine was blocked by the exhaust pipe. I aborted the work and put the bolt back in. Mine is a 2007 328xi automatic. Is there any tip you can give me on how to remove this bold easily. Removing the exhaust pipe was very difficult and hence didnt want to do that.

[@mattcallow1953]

Looks like the transfer case freed up and dropped enough to get the bolt out when he removed the bracket?

[@andrewjarvis3637]

Any luck on getting that bolt so far? I have the same vehicle and it is not delivering any power to the front axle. I have a feeling this is the cause, but I have not confirmed it. The only thing different with my car is there are no lights illuminated on the dash while the car is on dry pavement with all four wheels turning in sync. The dash lights up though when the rear wheels lose traction and are allowed to turn out of sync with the front axle.

[@dennismarques5910]

hey ED how much should I expect to pay if I take it to the shop???

[@dennismarques5910]

ps I have the same rims on my e90 330xi look great n ditched the run flats how BOUT YOU?

[@jehadnesh292]

Hey, I'm wondering if you can help me out, I have a 2007 bmw 328xi and the sign came on and it constantly shows, but driving is smooth and there is no noise when shutting of the car and this sign comes and goes but somehow is stuck today and so on!

[@edzgarage]

The actuator needs to be replaced. Mine did the same thing it was intermittent for awhile then stopped working completely and 4X4 light on all the time.

[@jehadnesh292]

EdzGarage now it's gone haha, this issue is really confusing and mine doesn't make any noise

[@alvaroaleman7534]

hello, good video, I would like to know if my car BMW E90 328XI 2007 automatic, use the same part? because I would like to buy this part for my car before it gets damaged, you know if my car uses the same piece?

[@leibyberfer]

Alvaro Aleman I'm almost sure that yes

[@Jonv101]

Is there anything wrong with driving my car with only 2wd

[@edzgarage]

Mine drove fine all summer before I fixed it for winter.

[@kickstar126]

Thanks bud, first rate video.

[@jeremiashernandez312]

Thank you so much Ed! This has been extremely helpful :)

[@shawnmrfixitlee6478]

Pretty easy fix , Good job Ed ! Thumbs up ..

[@edzgarage]

Yep, the lift makes these jobs easy for sure. Thanks for the comment Buddy!

[@jehadnesh292]

EdzGarage Hey, I'm wondering if you can help me out, I have a 2007 bmw 328xi and the sign came on and it constantly shows, but driving is smooth and there is no noise when shutting of the car and this sign comes and goes but somehow is stuck today and so on!

[@Brucelee89896]

Jehad Nesh Hello did you solve your 328 problem???

[@orbae1284]

Will this be almost the same on my 2009 328i? It has xdrive.

[@edzgarage]

Yes, should be very similar.

[@orbae1284]

EdzGarage Thank you! It is under warranty but our closest BMW has a 1star rating and all of our visits have been complete garabage and horrible service. So gonna try this myself.

[@05kittycat1]

Orbae by any chance did you the abs and 4x4 light on at the same time?

[@Jordibenitez_]

What type of e did you use?

[@sorinpaun9756]

Thank you very much you help me to solve my problems I have the same problems like you

[@TheGOATSosa]

Thanks for the help 🙏🏽

[@killinemdaily]

Thanks Mr. ED

[@patrickrusso8450]

Thank You> I'll be doing the same job on mine.

[@thevisionary2927]

Hi, I have a 2006 BMW X5 e53 3.0i and it has the 4x4 light constantly on. The O2 sensor needs replacing as well. Please advise what could be causing it and how to fix it. Much appreciated..!!!

[@sors1599]

The Visionary same thing for me bank 2 sensor 1

[@thevisionary2927]

@@sors1599 I went to a mechanic with good reputation. He said unless you have to get emission test, don't worry about the o2 sensor, it's not going to make a difference otherwise.

[@ronaldslager1714]

Have u fixed the problem?? Mine is the same car doing the same thing. Any luck ???

[@autovlogging]

Please DO NOT buy the cheap ones from ebay unless you can use your old resistor. Thats what actually happened to me.. I replaced mine that had bad gears however after installing the new one the error was still there and I could not perform the calibration. So I swapped the resistor and installed the old one and it worked right up

[@SkellyGrog]

You have to calibrate these? I replaced the part and now it binds when I’m turning. If I turn sharp enough it squeals the rear tire. How do I calibrate it?? Or is this because I used the new resistor?

[@Brucelee89896]

HELLO I DID ALL THIS BUT MY LIGHTS ARE STILL ON WHEN I PUT IT IN DRIVE PLEASE WHAT SHOULD I DO RESET????

[@edzgarage]

No reset needed. Are you sure all the connections are good and tight? Might want to verify the fuses are good too.

[@Brucelee89896]

yes followed your process exactly, but I was told at the diagnostic place that my fluid is low. I will make sure everything is tigh. THank You

[@alexg8460]

Did you fix the issue ???

[@Triplemyworth709]

@@Brucelee89896 did u fix it??

[@Brucelee89896]

@@Triplemyworth709 nooo man that never got fix i tried everything, new transfer case, oil and nothing, Car drove fine but I sold it

[@taxiwardance7242]

how much did the part cost? looking to do this myself. the local shop wanted $1200 for the job seems a bit steep

[@leibyberfer]

No don't do it !!.the part should cost you around 380 400 (Amazon )and my mechanic will install it for 200. He is charging you double!!

[@madsquad010]

Well done brother

[@soniccash1up]

I have a bmw 525xi but no axles on the front

[@orionhafen3425]

If anybody could help me it would be very much appreciated. I have a mini Cooper with the exact same warning light and problem, I’m stuck in front wheel drive. The dealership told me it was the EMCD on the rear diff so I replaced the entire rear diff and it did not fix it. I can’t find any help online and I haven’t had all wheel drive for almost a year now. Any tips would be appreciated!

[@TheNoobComment]

I reverse to parked my car and when I turned it on, gave me brake light fluid service, dsc, 4x4 codes. Fluid are new and replaced my two brake sensors. My service is due this month but couldn't reset it. I wonder if the service is throwing the 4x4 codes too? Please help.

[@CarlosHernandez-ix2cg]

WHEN REPLACE THE TRANFER CASE MOTOR HAS TO BE RECODE AND PROGRAM IN ORDER TO RESET IGHTS I BELIVE

[@asimkhan8620]

Carlos, I believe it is only the motor resistor that needs to be programmed. If you change the TC actuator but not the resistor (keep your original like the author here did) then there is no need for programming. There is nothing in the rest of the actuator unit that can be programmed, correct?

[@kurtisallen741]

Thank you for this!

[@giohooe]

I can’t access my 18 mm bolt. It’s pissing me off

[@joshuavaleza2719]

Very informative video hoping you can make more than , than that.

[@zanastumasonis]

I’m not able to insert the actuator all the way, its not going all the way in no matter how I try it, anyone experienced this?

[@zanastumasonis]

nevermind, evenly tightening the bolts around does it..

[@salvatoreperri2790]

Torque specs???

[@Apexkevin7]

Any video of the noise ?

[@edzgarage]

It's a slight grinding noise from under the center counsel. It gets worse over a few days then the "4X4!" light comes on and stays on. I didn't have the noise anymore when I did this video since I drove the car that way for 5 months, and the grinding had stopped completely by that time, because the worm gear was completely worn away.

[@Apexkevin7]

EdzGarage oh okay cause I have a noise coming from that same area i don't know if it's the transfer case itself of just the module it slips when I try to drive and just revvv

[@mbfauto682]

Hey I did this but still have the 4 x 4 light anything else you think could be wrong or I should check ?

[@Brucelee89896]

MBF drift life yes me too my 330xi just did all this but all my lights are still coming in what should I do

[@alexg8460]

Did you guys fix issue? Also replaced mine but now my brake light is on but in red? I think this is rear brake sensor that is bad , i will have it scanned tomorrow from y trusty mecanic and i hope this is it! Did you guys find the problem?

[@luisghernandez6358]

THANK YOU

[@Rekuzan]

The only mistake you made, was not going to FCP Euro for your parts...

[@bghancock84]

all good, but for SUV is differenr,

[@TheGOATSosa]

I’m here now after destroying my transfer case on my channel 🤣🤣

[@MarcThe5hark]

A

[@quartznation9499]

I was hearing the actuator clicking after turning off the car.. Before I had chance to replace the gear my x3 went into limp mode.. So I replaced the gear but now what do I do about resetting the limp mode? Or will it reset itself? Or should i push to mechanic? Please help thanks Cleared all codes generic code reader.. Cleaned 4 speed sensors..spark plugs. camshaft/crankshaft sensors, maf and checked all fluids.. Disconnected battery for 3 days.. I'm scared to turn ignition and see the Christmas lights.. It's not even thanksgiving yet