BMW X3 Brake, ABS, and 4X4 lights all come on in the morning how to fix

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BMW X3 Brake, ABS, and 4X4 lights all come on in the morning how to fix

[@ohmzen9695]

Attention!!! BMW X3 owners!!!! I had all these same symptoms on my 2004!! ABS BRAKE 4x4 Light come on and off. I took apart my servo motor to replace the gear.. ONLY TO FIND out it was PERFECTLY FINE!!! It was just my driver side Rear SPEED SENSOR was ripped up due to a rusting reluctor ring. Easy fix!! Bought a New speed sensor and a small washer to keep it from scratching against the reluctor ring. I WASTED OVER A WEEK under my car trying to figure this shit out! Hope this saves someone else too! Good luck! thanks

[@ohmzen9695]

Another quick tip for the Servo motor fix! Just spin the plastic gear 180º degrees.. The plastic gear only uses one side. Trying to release those little pins inside are a bitch to get that gear out! just spin it! good luck.

[@abumannocchi]

Once I remove what he removed I do what you said??

[@kevbidgood]

Thank you! This was very helpful for getting to the Transfer Case Actuator Motor part! I actually left one bolt in place on the right side, because I wasn't sure how I'd ever lift the transfer case back in place, I also followed other KZbin videos to buy a $6.00 carbon fiber motor gear replacement to make the repair on the existing unit. This repair saved me many hundreds of dollars.

[@thekidap]

just finished changing out my transfer case according to this video. took me 2 hours start to finish. got the part from a junk yard. saved a ton of koney. thank you brian. added to my favorites. 2006 bmw x5 4.4

[@derek6947]

Great video. I was able to make the repair without to much difficulty. I found that I had to take all the bolts out of the cross member and use my floor jack to replace the bolts. Thanks for posting!

[@brakedd]

The thought of working on BMWs keeps me up at night.

[@abumannocchi]

You still up huh, 11 years later...

[@abumannocchi]

Transfer case fix no problems but dead battery

[@abumannocchi]

Yes all night studying

[@aldavis1967]

Thank you so much, my lights have been coming on for the past few days on my 2007 X3. Thankfully, I am still under extended warranty. I know feel I have the knowledge to go in the dealership and tell them what's wrong. Thanks so much and God Bless You!

[@steinmanisk]

Thanks a lot! This was very helpful. I just replaced the little sensor on the motor, which was bad. Didn't even need to pull out the motor. All good now, no errors and no weird noises! Cheers!

[@cthompson0531]

Regarding the passenger mirror dropping down in reverse - you can set it by toggling where you leave the left/ride selector for the power mirrors

[@denenv1973]

Thank you so much for such a great explanation in changing this part. Although it may be worth noting that in some cases you may not have to actually replace the whole part, apparently it's very common for the gear located within the actuator to break and cause the same problem. but there are quite few videos that explain that online already.i just like the way you explain things better and wish you also included that information. Thanks for taking the time to help us save some money.

[@SuperPetrolhead87]

Nice to see a repair video on a car im going have a chance to work on in the uk!!I had a 330ci coupe cant knock it,saved my life in a head on accident:)we need more like this keep them coming!

[@RICGSXR1]

Hey Brian this video was very helpful, my X5 was doing the same thing and thanks to this video I was able to determine the problem quick, it only took like 45min to fix...and your right no programming was needed. Thanks a lot bro!

[@rockbottom1014]

No resetting was needed? The lights just went off? I replaced mine and the lights are still on

[@briansmobile1]

I'm happy to hear that- I can imagine that working to a degree in some instances. It would be worth a try.

[@leiflillandt1488]

I don't know if someone has mentioned it, but if one of the wheel sensors (ABS sensors) are too dirty, the diagnose program (Inpa) says the distance too big, then all these same lights are also on. After cleaning the sensor/sensors and deleting the fault codes, the problem is solved! Just work, no costs.

[@zeke1040]

I don’t believe the actuator will click like it does in this video, if it’s just the wheel speed sensor. IIRC

[@fendidog]

Thank you for the video - get this took it to my BMW dealer, and said it was a 7000.00 fix.

[@MegaAnusFace]

your videos are always so simple and easy to understand.

[@kingofthes3a]

Fantastic video. This helped me diagnose and fix my X3. Saved $$$$. Took about 3 hours all in to get it out, get it rebuilt (Following Jeff Caplan and EJcraigs videos) with the new gear and back together. Most of the time was spent getting that back plate off the unit itself. Couple things: 1. Take the cross bar off (18mm I recall). It may require another hand to get it back up, but it will certainly make it easier to access. 2. Make sure you have some swivel or knuckle joints. It's going to be too tight without them. 3. Getting that plate off was a pain. You can't be afraid to hurt it. I had to pound it out.

[@glenglene8473]

Have you noticed the black gear worn out in small section? I had the same issue, but I fixed it without spending a penny. Here is how I did it. The metal worm gear will strip out the black plastic gear, but it strips out only small section (about 25%). Remove four screws, pull out the worm gear, use you hand to manually spin the white gear 180% degrees, then install the motor. It will last another 100k miles.

[@dandrelich2316]

Brian, Thanks so much! By following your directions, I was able to remove the motor assembly and replace with little trouble. (Holding the transfer case up while replacing the cross member was a bit difficult.) Also, followed the odometer gear guy's directions and replaced just the gear....saved about $650 over buying a new motor assembly.

[@glenglene8473]

next time do this, I had the same issue, but I fixed it without spending a penny. Here is how I did it. The metal worm gear will strip out the black plastic gear, but it strips out only small section (about 25%). Remove four screws, pull out the worm gear, use you hand to manually spin the white gear 180% degrees, then install the motor. It will last another 100k miles.

[@samsonevickis]

Dear Brian, When this client pulled up with a crazy high bill from the dealer $12K, I assured him it would be a simple fix, not knowing exactly what the problem was yet, but with the dealer giving me a print out of the parts required, I had a starting point, having never had a client with this issue before I started to grow a bit nervous, but then when I wanted more info on problem and the cheapest repair, my hear fluttered when I started playing a video from some other site, for the voice narrating the video was that of Brian, my dear sweet Brian. I always feel better doing a job for the first time, when you have already done it for me. Thank you as always! Sincerely BMW Dave PS. let me send you a case of beer or something!

[@Boomhauer333]

+Dave Malik Are you kidding? $12k for a motor? In this case you don't even have to spend more than $15 tops. Replacing the whole motor is not necessary. That plastic gear inside is easy to swap out.

[@samsonevickis]

+Juggernaut383 Hah, no they were trying to say his tires were behind the issue, and that it had permanently damaged the Transaxle itself.

[@Boomhauer333]

Dave Malik lol i love those crooks. They need to be put out of business.

[@spiderdad00]

i was told that too

[@Timc220]

Hey Brian, thanks for another excellent vid! Just wanted to let you know (in case someone hasn't mentioned it already) that the passenger mirror can be selected to drop while in reverse or not. It's controlled by the mirror selector switch. If you have it one the drivers side, it won't drop. If it's on the pass side, it will drop. This is how it works on my wife's 04 X3.

[@onerommusic805]

How the name this part?

[@aubattler]

awesome video, thanks. Fixed my issue in 2 hours, just swapped the plastic gear

[@subotica1974]

thank you for clearing this for me. I also notice loss of power besides 4X4 would this be normal as well? It shows something like DSC problem see dealer?

[@briansmobile1]

It controls the clutch pack inside the transfer case. It helps make the wheels hook up when needed for braking or accelerating.

[@FLJAMESFL]

Brian your the best. So detailed with the information. Big Thanks, once again.

[@MarkShapiroMusic]

Great video briansmobile1, thanks much! I have the trifecta of lights on (2 yellows and red brake). But I never hear a clicking noise coming from the actuator motor when the engine is turned off. Could this still be a bad gear? How can I be sure it's the motor/gear before ripping the whole thing apart? How would I know if I still have 4wd function? Thanks!

[@TheKelekele]

Man big big thanx for this explanation.You help me to fix one X3 with same problem.

[@saenzlovo]

Thank you for posting this great video..Thanks to you i found what the issue was on my car , bought the part online , installed it my self and its working just fine..I also wanted to add that even though this car have the button to turn of the 4x4 on it (DSC) i dont think its a good idea to use it..I messed with it to make some donuts and thats when i started having problems with it so i wouldn't recommend turning it off !!!! THANKs Again.........

[@geoffreyharrison1067]

well done mate you have just helped me out considerably ...thank you

[@sjs2657g]

Brian, the trick of the right mirrors is that the mirror selector switch to move between right and left adjustments is left on the right side mirror, it will lower so that you can see the curb. If it is in neutral, or left, nothing happens.

[@maungsacca]

Thankyou for this great video. I live in Myanmar have this problem appeared in the last month. Now I really have to buy an e-torx socket set. But really a big big thanks for this information which has given me valuable information. Errors codes on ODBII are 4F7A and 5F3A DSC Transfer Case Malfunction. Also 5462 and 5463. Ok now I just have to get a part and spend money too easy!

[@devildogg112985]

Thank you much, my moms car just started Friday its been jerky when driving . I appreciate your video, im going to look into this.

[@lharvey16]

i liked the encouragement to not remove the bolt holding the support piece on, just the four support to frame bolts. did not look all the way to see if someone mentioned it, but if that support bushing is in good shape it won't pull down. the necessary side will slide front to back allowing adequate access, so it comes to the same thing. except that bushing must be shot.

[@randallstewart8487]

That right side mirror dropping down when put in reverse was bugging me too,but found out if you move mirror control to right side it wont do that,found that out accidently on my 05 x5 e53 n62 4.4I,they have replacement gears out to fix that stripped out plastic gear,you have to remove the circlip on top of white plastic gear to remove it and then get to the plate that the stripped gear is underneath,thanks for the video,I know its an older video but may help someone now that these vehicles has a lot more miles on them!

[@masterz1r]

Thanks , just did this to my girls 2004 x3. Rotated the wheel. It's working great , best part it was free!!!!

[@briansmobile1]

I love the internet because eventually there will be a solution because ideas and opportunities find each other so quickly. AFTER posting this video people have chimed in that they found such solutions. On this job however, the best solution I found on short notice was the unit at the dealership.

[@williamcosme7276]

briansmobile1 did this issue cause your car to suddenly turn off when driving and/or a major loss in power ??

[@ronaldslager1714]

@@williamcosme7276 that happened to me... 2 days ago.... Any ideas ??

[@e65bmwdoctor]

Brian.. if you want those pesky side mirror to stop dropping down or in BMW master tech talk...deactivate the curb wheel protection function.. all you have to do is select via the side mirror adjustment switch to the right mirror, that is how you deactivate this function. Most people have the switch to the left because is the main mirror we check all the time. So is not BMW fault.. is usually costumers that don't know or have training in these cars an annoy them.. only if they read the owners manual! jaja! great vid bro...

[@briansmobile1]

Carlos Ramirez Thanks Carlos!

[@teslatapia1713]

+briansmobile1 ተቴገooo

[@teslatapia1713]

+briansmobile1 ተቴገooo

[@drewaitken9601]

It is meant so you can view the curb when parking, especially when no rear view camera or guidance.

[@466tex]

Very helpful I just got a used bmw x3 it has not been 3 months yet and all three lights came on.I did some research and tried doing it myself last night and had to stop because I didn't know enough about the bmw. I am going to try again today thanks to your helpful video. I hope it works. I do have one question can you just disconnect the wires and drive it like that if you don't use the 4x4?

[@briansmobile1]

I will say that BMW does make some premium designs and some premium components. I really like their seats, jacks, wheels, sensors, wiring, engines, collision engineering and ride quality.

[@thekidap]

You are the man! "Thank you internet".

[@enriquegomez7586]

Brian, I noticed that you didn't put a jack or support under the transfer case itself as some other videos have shown. Is supporting the transfer case not necessary? Thank you for your help from SoCal.

[@1977brownskin]

Thank you so much, my husband and I are having the same problem with our x3. You just saved us a lot of money. thank you, thank you.

[@briansmobile1]

You're welcome Mrs. Perry!

[@xxROEVYxx]

Really enjoy the videos ! But I do have a random question. Have you ever tried to bypass the abs on a late 90s Chevy? Or on any vehicle? I have a 99 Chevy Silverado and I don’t want to put out the money for a new abs module so I hard lined everything to bypass the abs. But I still cannot get pressure ?!?! Installed new booster and all new lines. All 1/4” lines except for the 3/16” going across the rear axle. Used a inverted flare T fitting to split for the front brakes and just straight back from the mc to the rear brakes. There are no leaks in any connections and I have bled everything more than once in every way imaginable lol. I have tested it and it will eventually stop you just have to pump a couple times and hold. When we bleed it it shoots fluid out at the bleeders pretty good. But just doesn’t have pressure to brake. Kind of pulling my hair out as to why it won’t work. Sorry for the long rant. But I can’t understand what part of the system is failing. Thank you for your time and keep up the good videos. Ps would putting a proportioning valve make that big of a difference ?

[@briansmobile1]

I work out a lot. I just put the bolt through it and use my socket to push it up and then twist in a few threads.

[@briansmobile1]

Thanks. That just means you're smart and you have a good car vocabulary. ; )

[@Senriquez1960]

Hi Brian, thanks so much for posting this on your channel. I have been having the same issue and no one could tell me what was going wrong with my X5. I do have a question, IF I don't correct / fix this soon will it hurt anything in my BMW? Please advise and thanks again! ~Sam Houston, TX

[@upallnight888]

Thanks for the video. I'm going to post a link to your video on several BM Trouble U forums that I am on.

[@randallaguero5047]

Hi i have this ploblem rigth now . Only 4x4 ligth you think is the transfer case actuador .

[@curtismuleya6392]

Thanks man, I had the same annoying problem and I just fixed it. Thanks again

[@yazzu_7013]

@briansmobile1 would you happen to know the torque down specs for most of the bolts / torque screws used in the video

[@michaeltrovato1085]

I just watched your video on how to change out that shift Actuator motor you made it look easy I just did it in a garage on ramps no air tools by hand by myself not as easy as it looks

[@abumannocchi]

Welcome to the game.

[@briansmobile1]

Welcome! Good job!

[@MilesFromExtraordinary]

Ok, so this video is ancient, but I'm hoping you can help. Have 2006 BMW X5 E53 with same 3 lights after 10 mins or so of running. Have replaced the gear in my transfer case actuator, problem persists. Need to diagnose wheel speed sensors at ABS module but can't find pinout information to do so. If wheel speed sensors are okay, need to have ABS module rebuilt but can't find a source who does this for 2006 models. Thoughts on how to proceed? Cheers.

[@welldone2016]

thanks for this video, big help !

[@kidsmaltacom]

hi there , i have the same problem with the 4x4lights coming on, can you please send me a link to where i can buy the part online. thanks!

[@rodrigovital647]

Great vid man. Quick question if i decide not to change the part will it do any future damage to the car? thanks

[@Resq28]

Excellent. Is this the same for 2010 X3’s? Thank you

[@thewiseguy7100]

Hey man need your help. Yesterday I have the "Service AWD System" and ABS light. Im sure their both connected. I scanned it said "Transfer Case Internal Failure".. Does an all wheel drive only have one transfer case or 2.. Im seeing on ebay some that say front transfer case and just transfer case.. Please help..

[@antispectacular]

Saved me a ton of cash. Thanks!

[@youngmou12]

Helllllp!!! How do I bolt back the cross member? It will not go back up, it seems it's to heavy to go back up. Any tips would really help. Thanks!

[@koikahi]

Hey Brian, did you make this repair while the car was jacked up. I want to do this in my home garage. Is it easy?

[@luiseliplourde5745]

excellent job, you are the best..!!!

[@wayalakmanba4227]

Hi, I recently bought a bmw 2004 x3 with 170km on it. On a few occasion when I am driving it stalls for a few milliseconds with the check engine light on, which goes back off after 2 seconds. I was wondering if you have any ideas of what may be causing that. last week i took it to a bmw shop, they replaced freeze up kit. when i took the car, after 5 minutes the check engine light came on again and the car almost stalled. I took back to them the next day. i had to go get it later in the day, when they parked it outside for me with the engine running, with a noise. i don't know what that was. i saw that the the A/C was on then, i shut it off, then the noise is gone. I drove it outside of their lot for 2 minutes then shut the engine, and when i turn the key on to start it, i saw in the dashboard that the brake warning and the flat tire monitor light flash from yellow to red then went off. Is that normal for them to flash red from yellow? from what i can remember i never saw that before. Today, it stalled on me several time, and i see that happens when i hit the break. the 4x4 light came on together with another light. can you tell me what may be going with the check engine light flashing and causing the car to stall. and the causes of the other things and what fix you'd recommend.

[@briansmobile1]

I'm flattered- thanks.

[@TheGreatDaKine]

Helpful post and friendly presentation, thank you!

[@briansmobile1]

Welcome! Thanks for subscribing and clicking the like button!

[@DanielleSison]

Thank you so much for this addition. It is truly appreciated. Now, I have a good idea of what is happening with the car and know that it's a common issue. Where are you located? Do you happen to know of anyone in California who can fix this same issue?

[@charlieduransax]

Yup! Thanks KZbin! I saved a lot of money changing this thing out myself! Easy fix with the right tools

[@abrolovesyall6920]

What tools did you use?

[@jaisyn37]

To stop the mirror from going into Curb Assist, switch the mirror adjustment button to the right side mirror and it will stay leveled at all times. Once you switch it to the left side mirror, it will then dip the mirror.

[@nicks7548]

Thanks for the video. My X3 Money Sponge has the same three lights with a check engine code P1774 intermitenley. The triad of lights come and go. I'm also experiencing abs pulsation come on when reversing down my pretty steep driveway in the morning or when not driven, with very light brake pressure. Did you or anyone ever experience abs pulsation when not needed. Maybe my actuator is not allowing the transfer case to give assisted braking, wheel speed sensor, abs sensor bad? Also when cold I'm getting a whistling sound around 30 mph and then goes away. I've been putting off replacing the tires which I know these auto's can be sensitive to low tire thread. Really don't know where to start anymore with this thing w/ 130K miles. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[@thehun06]

Did you just have to undo one side of the transfer case cross member?

[@davidlanham5914]

So, is it safe to perform this motor replacement without supporting the transfer case with a jack stand? I assume the case is still supported by the large through bolt you left in place? Other KZbin videos show completely removing the transfer case cross member. Thanks for putting out this DIY video.

[@bugleboy154]

Thank you great video!

[@keving52002]

Great video I got a2001 Olds Bravada with the same issue put a scaner in it an sure enough the encoder motor is bad, just have to R&R makes the same clicking sounds when key is in the on position.

[@badarkus15]

HI just wondering if you can help me, I have a bmw x3 2006. Last year I did my yearly maintenance, just recently the lights on my dashboard started to pop up like the break lights, abs, 4x4. So I got my oil change, oil filter and air filter changed. I thought that would help and it did, but now the 4x4 is still popping up.. Just wondering do you think I need to change my transfer case and incoater motor as well? Just thought I'd ask because just saw your video. I don't wanna buy from the dealer because its so it's expensive. So maybe go ebay or amazon. Need your help please and thank you.

[@Nik-by5mi]

HELP!!Im doing this FIx RIght NOW!! and.. Im stuck on the black Crossmember bar blocking the servo motor. I took the 4 bolts out and I even spent the 2hours of getting the last bushing bolt loose and pulled out..but the bushing bolt is long.. its over an inch out.. but the Black Crossmenber bar still will not fall down loose..its seems to be stuck on something.. took a rubber mallet to loosen things but still nothing...it wall not come out of the way.. am a missing a bolt somewhere? 2004 BMW X3 . thanks

[@victorianoreyes4518]

Hi Brian, I have 2004 BMW 325i sedan i was driven and when I shifted to fifth gear lost acceleration And this three lights came on EML DSC and brake yellow light . If you can help it's well appreciated

[@shellyhickman6850]

very good information... can I drive the car to shop for repairs or should it be towed

[@lindaholmes2010]

Thanks from Australia

[@classicclinic]

Hey Brian I noticed your comment about the passenger side mirror dropping down. For the longest time I was really annoyed too until I realized when you have the left or right mirror switch in the center position it doesn’t drop down. Let me know if that works for ya.

[@svais]

I have replaced my worn Gear Box Transfer Case Servo Actuator Motor with a new gear. The problem is gone. However, after driving for some time the 4x4 and abs lights come on (except for brake as in before) and the fan of the engine starts to cool it even though engine temperature is fine. There is no cracling sound when I turn off the engine as it did before replacement. What could still be the issue?

[@chnowski]

Thank you. Totally helpful.

[@chuckkremer2740]

Thanks for the reply. Yeah, I had the car just completely flat on the floor. No jacks or anything.... Easy to reach under from the side.. Thanks....

[@dbota1]

Thank you for this video you saved me alot of money. The BMW dealer was going to charge me over $3,000

[@briansmobile1]

Welcome!

[@chall514]

Hi Brian, very friendly of you to post this video. My 02 just did this on the way home today. However, at the same time, my tire monitoring sensor also came on. The tire pressures are all fine. My ABS system still actuates on a slippery road too. Is there a common fuse that may be the culprit?

[@briansmobile1]

Amen to that one!

[@briansmobile1]

Thanks

[@DL-by8el]

I wonder why they don't have to do a recall on that? I found a bmw on auction with the abs and brake lights on wonder if it has this issue?

[@bite_beat]

Thanks for the video. Great one!!! Just one advice to the people who don't want to spend so much money on changing the whole part. You can just open the gearbox and rotate the plastic part 180 degrees, and it will work for another 60-70k miles. I did it myself and the signs went off permanently.

[@SelvaGanesh-Buzz]

Do you have video or link that you can share on how to rotate that? Thanks

[@tomscars]

Which plastic part? the white plastic gear on the outside or the thing we were not able to see clearly in the hole?

[@MrAllie-bf6zt]

@@SelvaGanesh-Buzz kzbin.info/www/bejne/jobOlWiudpJ5Y6M

[@dontpanic4295]

My lights come off for a few minutes and then after I stop the car and restart it they'll go out and then a couple days later they'll come back on are the gear still bad?

[@4bmw6]

Reson why the mirror drop is for curbing. To get that to stop. Move thr mirror adjustment from driver to passenger .or vis versa

[@briansmobile1]

Welcome!

[@emputao]

Expensive to replace all over the servo. Still a great and very helpful vid. Thanks.

[@DillysADV]

Now I remember why I put up with my beater blazer.. the entire transfer case costs less than 1K.. good catch on the trouble diagnostics.

[@MyNirvana23]

i have the same problem with the 4x4lights but my car when i put it to drive it won't go any where, its like where u have the emergency brake on! i don't what else to do, please if u could give me an idea why this is happening

[@briansmobile1]

AMEN!

[@jamesd2289]

Thank u for this video. I have the 4x4 warning light on my 2004 bmw x3 also. When i turn on and off the car i go underneath the car and dont here that clicking noise like i did in this video but its more of a air release sound. Like "pshhh"

[@spotlesscarpetupholsterycl460]

I also hear the air release sound not clicking I’ve changed the actuator and the triad of lights are still on! Did you get yours sorted and what was it in the end ? I appreciate it was a very long time ago but work asking Thanks

[@amarjitssidhu]

I have the same problem yesterday with my 2004 X3. Is it drivable or better to wait to get it fixed. After stopping at a red light and then trying to give gas when its green again it jerks for 3 seconds and is not smooth.

[@briansmobile1]

You're welcome!

[@emputao]

Goooood, Rick. But how did you disassembly the gear case? I think you got the current best approach for this issue.

[@kiddarth1]

Hey, thx for making this video. Where did you order the new part from?

[@eljusticierodehierro2]

i did the change the part and the 3 light still on what can i do next. please help

[@BrianSmyth]

Stupid part has to be made out of plastic? I got real lucky was able to do it on the lift and it took about an hour not a bad job. Thank you guys so much for posting this video

[@briansmobile1]

What was it marketed as?