BMW 2004-2010 X3 Transfer Case Actuator & Fluid Replacement DIY (BMW E83 X3, 2004-2014 X5, 08-14 X6)

[@JG-gf9ho]

Couple of similar videos about Actuator replacement in KZbin. This one is the best.

[@xiayu27]

18:52 you missed a baby for the baby counter! Excellent video. Thanks so much for sharing your expertise! Do you absolutely have to remove the 18mm cross member bolt to remove the actuator motor? EDIT: Finished the job already and the answer to my question is NO. Just have to lower the transfer case after removing the 4 cross member bolts to get access to the actuator screws.

[@peculiarliving9474]

I just want to say thanks for such a thorough and well produced DIY. Very helpful.

[@fcpeuro]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jbrown8059]

Man you are the best, my bmwx3 2008 having same issue but i have useless mechanics in New Zealand..you explain it better than bmw people

[@fcpeuro]

We'll let Mike know you enjoyed it!

[@Tugger_1]

Hey bruv, I'm an avionic engineer and in NZ and i fix BMWs. Need to know anything, ask👍 if i don't know, ill figure it out

[@carlos-kx4sn]

You nailed this video with all the details man. Well done video

[@luisg2665]

What's the oil i should be buying? How bad it is if i don't reset it with a computer after?

[@921aa]

What stops the plastic gear from coming out while the worm gear is still in place? It would seem the only reason to take the motor out is to make it easier to clean the worm gear. Perhaps dremel tool with a small grinder would be better than breaking the casting.

[@mra4107]

What are your thoughts about using the URO brand brass gear instead of the plastic one again? Greater longevity?

[@creativemt4065]

Hi! Great Video. Hey, Do you know where the fuse is located? I change a brand-new transfer case (actuator motor) and still I have the lights coming up on my dashboard. Thank you!

[@cruzfernandez4554]

Very appreciated and worthy time watching the video. Thank you

[@nicholasnagy2848]

Outstanding instructional. I would give this video 100 thumbs up if I could.

[@MoCityT3xAZBaby]

Do u have to reprogram it after installing?

[@gemmavanrooyen1668]

I would also like to know this. Replaced by car now shifting loudly and shuddering on breaking. When I turn of XD shifting is fine, but obviously power is low and it's not a solution. Getting a code re calibration of the TC. Do we need certain software to reset?

[@qollinsqollo2293]

very very well elaborated and explained , thank you

[@fcpeuro]

You're welcome, Qollins!

[@Gerlingsbulldogges]

Found new favorite channel 🎉❤🎉

[@fcpeuro]

💙

[@arnaudekko]

Hello, c'est la meilleure vidéo sur ce sujet, merci de France 🇲🇫, tres beau tee-shirt également 👍

[@2limecrew159]

I just did this and saved a buttload of duckets baby! Gracias yo!

[@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

[@fcpeuro]

You may need a more powerful scanner to clear all the codes (transmission).

[@quartznation9499]

While waiting for the actuator to arrive, I took the battery out of the car and kept it on a trickle charger so after 3 days and I replaced the actuator reattached the battery and the limp mode went away yay

[@gdivision951]

@@fcpeuro great content and instruction video ! 👌 Question, regarding that adapation, is it just resetting all fault codes from car's ECU or it sth else, would you be able to explain that to me ? Thx 😁

[@jschoombee]

Is it needed to replace the transfer case cross.member bolts when doing this job? Are they steel bolts?

[@allstar98134]

First off; thank you so much for the information; I was able to but the new gear for $11 on Amazon; spent an hour removing and replacing it with little difficulty; Here is what’s odd though; at first the warning lights were off, but came back on the next day; I pulled it out again; I believe that I did everything right; but I suspect that the actuator motor is having trouble turning the gear in the transfer case. Because after driving twice, the new gear is already damaged. Any suggestions on what to do next? Thank you for any suggestions.

[@fcpeuro]

Hi All-Star, it sounds like you may have an issue with the motor or the case itself. More diagnosis will be needed in order to determine the issue. You may want to consider resetting the adaptations if youhaven'tt already.

[@e24kgold]

@@fcpeuro How do you reset adaptations?

[@waynesalekin6773]

Amazing video. Great job. Thank you very much!

[@quong1]

hi mike love your work and appreciate all your expert advice and demonstrations. i have a serious question...i had my auto mechanic change the auto transmission filter change and gasket... he filled cold and did not check fill at correct temperature 2 weeks ago...and now at idle the automatic transmission is about to blow up and make horrible loud sound.... but once i get going i dont have any gear change issues.. but it sounds like a grating sound 2006 bmw x3 and now i dont know what to do...thanks mike

[@anthonythurman3043]

About to do this on my daughters x5..thanks for the thorough..lesson

[@fcpeuro]

You're welcome, Anthony!

[@anthonythurman3043]

Was able to do it..week before last..easy peasy

[@ronaldslager1714]

@@anthonythurman3043 any chance you are in NJ ???

[@erfanpalatin]

Hi FCP EU, thank you for the in depth video, this helped my a lot. Just a question out of curiousity, i see people sell metallic version of the actuator gear , would that be a good idea to put on your car ?

[@blackterminal]

@@SuncoastCreate they should make a solid steel one

[@caseyjones7638]

currently have an x5 e70 with these 4 lights on the dash with a d36a f~can message vehicles done 89000 miles could this be the cause thanks and great video

[@hernanarcos4719]

What oil to use for a 2012 BMW X5 E70

[@Samuel-is4wl]

I just did this but my I’m having issues with my rear tires. Is there something else I need to do?

[@chrisp.5272]

I definitely need to replace my fluid, 40,000+ miles. I also need an ECU repair, it’s temperature sensitive and starting it 2-3 times in the winter really sucks.

[@deangiorgi9889]

I have a question. How do you know which way to put the sensor in? I put it in what I thought was right but I still have the dash lights on for AWD and abs brake. Any help would be much appreciated.

[@gfdaemonio]

Do the new gear spin freely? Mine does now. It feels tight. The worm gear might strip it.

[@Strickdaddy59]

Thanks for the video. I am really struggling to get the 18mm through bolt out of the cross member. The exhaust piping is in the way and I cannot get anything in there. I've also tried an 18mm wrench and just cannot get enough leverage. Any tips?

[@blackterminal]

Someone else just skipped that and was ok

[@Samuel-is4wl]

You really don’t need to take it out.

[@zdenekmasek7671]

You dont need to reset oil adaption after?

[@GabeeYankee]

I have the same problem but in my X3 2015. They come with that?

[@fernandoruano1000]

Can you help? I changed the whole transfer case gear in my car, but the lights are still turning on.

[@Resq28]

Great great video. Thank you. Ordering the new parts now. Can the vehicle be driven to the shop or will it have to be towed for the reset? Thank you.

[@fcpeuro]

That will all depend on how far gone your plastic gear is. If you have a loud clicking coming from it, we would suggest getting the vehicle towed. This X3 had just started to fail (audibly) so it was still in ok shape to drive into the shop for filming.

[@Resq28]

@@fcpeuro excellent. Thank you.

[@glenglene8473]

what symptom if the plastic gear worn out? does the vehicle hesitate when accelerating?

[@fcpeuro]

Hi Glen, you will often see error lights on the dash, have a code stored in the ECU, and in some cases will hear a clicking coming from the transfer case.

[@fernandoquiros6387]

Amazing video, excellent teaching, thanks, just I want to ask a question. What are the failure symptoms when the Transfer Case Actuator is failing? In my BMW X5, 2008, there is a noise in the gear or transfer box and sometimes it just goes very slowly, without force or it turns off.

[@sscummings]

he just told you smh

[@rockbottom1014]

I just replaced the actuator and all three lights are still on. Should they eventually shut off in their own?

[@maximrabah2169]

PLEASE HELP OR ADVISE : I have problem with my e46 325i /2001 1-Battery light is on 2-transmission faulty light is on 3- I hear a bang when switching from reverse to drive 4-instrument cluster does mot show which gear the car is on P,R N Or D When I start the car and see this sign faulty transmission , the car can drive on reverse and other gears except for first gear. If I start the car and sign does not show on dashboard, the car only drives on first gear 35 Km speed max. Took it to many mechanics and nobody could fix it. First guy said he fixed alternator and reprogrammed ECM , The second told me to check and change Positon switch which I did today and still problem not fixed .Now they are saying its the alternator which the first guy fixed. I checked the battery its giving 12.4 V and when car started and I hit Benzin pedal it goes up to 13.9-14 Volt .

[@salvatoreperri2790]

@fcpeuro What’s the torque spec for the e92 335xi coupe tc shift actuator motor? I can’t find the numbers anywhere.

[@angelmedina541]

I'm sorry, I replaced the actuator but the 4x4 warning light on the dashboard is still on and the 4x4 doesn't work, what could be the problem?

[@fcpeuro]

Hi Angel, you will want to scan the vehicle for codes and diagnose further. It is possible your vehicle has a deeper issue than just the actuator gear!

[@rockbottom7044]

What do you think of Valvoline transfercase fluid?

[@Illogic10]

@fcpeuro Does it matter if you use the old sensor? I’ve heard if it’s in good shape use the old sensor?

[@fcpeuro]

If you had no issues with any of your sensors prior to the repair, you can continue to use them.

[@ssdtrain1]

GREAT JOB BRO !!!! AWESOME INSTRUCTIONS

[@theagam97]

This also works for E90 325xi (drive), right?

[@fcpeuro]

Similar process, yes!

[@jorgerea939]

Awesome video, I have an X5, I appreciate it

[@othmanelahrach1247]

Hi, i did open it and that plastic part was like new. I replaced it since i already opened everything just in case. I believe the fault maybe from the electric motor. How can i test it with 12 battery vault, there is 7 pin.

[@donnye454]

I don’t see 2013 X5 XDrive 35i on the list. Different than other 2013 X5s?

[@fasbird1000]

Can u give a specification about the kit plastic if I need to buying from the dealer?

[@fcpeuro]

What information were you looking in to?

[@fasbird1000]

thnx already done (transfer servo acutator ..motor gear box kit plastic replacement) thanx

[@ronaldslager1714]

Hey.. I have a BMW X5 2006 3.0 . Mechanics did a scan and still are clueless! Codes say 227 & 228 ( o2 bank 2 control deviation and o2 bank 1 control deviation.. ) Also I have 4x4 DSC Inactive light on suddenly! and I hear grinding noise underneath at hard stops like down a hill...(NO Abs lights on) I assume Transfer Case Motor or Gear ??? Or oil ???...It feels like brake locks on when I stop down a hill.. What could it be??? Also... My check engine light has Always been on for 3 years ( Map Thermostat code) but every mechanic told me not to bother replacing that part... Recently The car has trouble starting every morning and when low on fuel. !! Cranks but No start for at least 5 cranks... *Maybe Fuel pump Relay?? *Fuel pressure regulator?? *Fuel filter?? *Fuel Injectors ?? They cant figure it out!!! Seems the Fuel Pump is working.. I Went to over 20 car shops in 3 weeks and am really frustrated :( What could it be ??? They cant figure it out !!!

[@blackterminal]

Fuel filter then pump in that order . Try that

[@waynesalekin6773]

Will an OBD reader for a BMW clear the codes and reset the adaptation values?

[@mcplutt]

The icarsoft BMM 2.0 or 3.0 will probably do just that.

[@JMlivePR]

I take out the transfer case but the gear are good. What's the another possible issue ?

[@fcpeuro]

Hi J&M, it will all depend on what exactly you are experiencing. If you have already performed this service, we would advise checking the rest of the driveline for any possible failures. Starting with a fluid service on all the components first and going from there!

[@rockbottom7044]

How do you know you have a bad actuator?

[@MrBliviu607]

Thank you ! 😊👍🏼

[@DAMCARTER1]

I bought a 2007 BMW X5 E70. I have it for 1 year 2 months. I recently noticed there isn’t a front drive shaft . I want to install one but I saw a few videos where people were having issues with the length. Can I use a later model drive shaft? Which one will you recommend?

[@fcpeuro]

Hi Daaka, we would recommend finding an original replacement part. Using your VIN you should be able to source the correct part number for it.

[@purplethumb5585]

Great help thank you very much for sharing

[@fcpeuro]

Happy to be of help!

[@motorpsychohead]

I bought the car a year ago and I changed the gear, new fluid and the car ran fine. Now a year later the abs, 4x4 and tpms lights are on. ABS would apply every time I brake and the car hesitates like it's gonna stall then seconds after the tpms light comes on, that's when DSC system is disable ! The car runs fine after but without DSC and ABS, 4x4 and tpms lights come on. I changed to new 4 abs sensors but no fix. I have to take the abs fuse out to stop the abs to act up. Now I am just driving with bunch of lights on the dash, no abs and don't know if 4x4 still work or not! I also changed to the new actuator !

[@bethells86]

Lacking any good closeups

[@olymes808]

Did I just hear you say you can replace the part for 500 bucks 🤯 I found the same part for 90 bucks… but great video.

[@ve2430]

Does this apply to the e46 xi models?

[@cesarc.salazar4631]

Does it also work the same for a 2011 BMW X3 F25

[@bradleymoyer5236]

Wait wait wait why didn’t you reset the values? Doesn’t it do major damage if you don’t ?

[@fcpeuro]

Hi Bradley, good question! As Mike mentioned in this video, the vehicle just started showing signs, so it continued to drive fine after the repair. On a highly affected vehicle, it would certainly be critical to reset the values. If you have the tools to do so, you can also do it, needing it or not.

[@calvinhenshaw2147]

what was the name of the software that was needed on the laptop ???

[@fcpeuro]

Hi Calvin, that would be BMW ISTA software.

[@jeanibiuna]

Is it necessary to reset the service interval after a tranfer case fluid change? On this e83?

[@samuelthomas9637]

I just did this. After about a week my wheels are locking up. Does anyone know what the issue is?

[@opticadventures6759]

Just replaced my actuator gear and boy what a difference.

[@guillermomulgrave7330]

Question(My 2007 x3): My transfer case was changed to a used one and it removed the ABS/Brake/4x4 lights from being on. Now I hear a scratching sound from the back that was NEVER present before. Do you have a professional opinion what could be happening or what could be checked?

[@fcpeuro]

Hi Guillermo, the best thing to do is start with the easiest, which would be to check the heat shields. There is a good chance one was bent out of the way and is touching something while driving. Otherwise, a more deep inspection will be needed to ensure everything was secured properly, fluids were topped off, and of course that the replacement case is healthy. Crossing our fingers it is just a shield!

[@shadahmed7436]

How much should this cost

[@scott2495]

Wow it amazes me some of the noob questions that get asked in the comments section when he literally goes through EVERYTHING to do the job at hand

[@Kapu5-15]

Are you guys are located in CT

[@fcpeuro]

Hi Ariel, we are located in Milford CT!

[@TheMartin139]

Hi, does anyone know what size are the copper washers for the tranfer case

[@1057811]

18 X 22 X 1.5 mm I hope this message isn’t too late

[@TheMartin139]

@@1057811 thank you!

[@studiosupremechannel3517]

Excellent baby!!!! Thank you for the video :)

[@fcpeuro]

You're welcome Studio Supreme. We got you bb 👶.

[@patrioty3k]

Will this work for 2010 X5?

[@5818lopser]

Are transfer cases compatibles from 2006 to 2007 on x3?

[@fcpeuro]

E83 units should be interchangeable from their 6 year run😎

[@adlaihampton1321]

Great video, video will help me wit mine very good instrctor

[@JayBHooks]

Thanks for the video! I notice that all of the DIY transfer case actuator repair videos and forums I've seen only apply to X3 models up to 2010. I have a 2011 and the transfer case is causing me problems. Will I find the same parts in the actuator? Gears etc? Did BMW change the transfer case design from 2011 on?

[@mr2_mike]

Typically just: 2004-2007 BMW X5 E53 2004-2010 BMW X3 E83

[@arjaye8783]

Jay Hooks did you find any informational videos on 2011 X3 models? I'm curious to know.

[@9PieceStraight8Balls]

Can I just buy the whole Bosch actuator shift motor from eBay for $90 and replace it instead of going through these steps?

[@Sulser007]

I also just bought a new actuator for $100 Instead of opening it up I will just change it... Now the $100 Question... Is this one going to last???

[@manuchargaprindashvili8036]

transfer case gut

[@josealfredovalles435]

We’re do you fine the parts for vmw 2005

[@fcpeuro]

To find the oarts for your vehicle, you'll want to enter your year make and model intot he site!

[@moonsapling]

Is this a permanent fix?

[@fcpeuro]

This fix will be good for another 100k or so, however the fluid should be changed way before that!

[@bobmathew3380]

Great explanations and video!!!!

[@weerawat4864]

Does this work with 2011 X5 3.0d?

[@opticadventures6759]

Yes

[@mattadams6641]

Ive just pulled fuse 26 and its stopped

[@2004skylinegtrr34]

I did mine, but my gear was actually good. Still the light comes on for it. But i have an 2008 X5 4.8i

[@Alexjimb0]

Lmfao the "sike" I almost thought u were me lmfao I talk to bolts all the time

[@fcpeuro]

Sometimes they listen... sometimes they dont.

[@fazeleino8078]

Thanks for this video thanks again

[@michaelbrown2112]

Fantastic video! Those front Connecticut plates irritate the heck out me tho 😆

[@saistylezwigartistry1616]

Is it possible to do this at home without a car lift? Or do you need it that high

[@fcpeuro]

You can certainly do this job at home, the main thing is to have the vehicle level for proper filling of the transfer case fluid!

[@saistylezwigartistry1616]

@@fcpeuro my transfer case was just flushed and gasket replaced 6 months ago. Can I just replace my actuator

[@surreaLinnovatioN]

Watching @9:51, mentally moves on to buying the part and skips to @18:00

[@jaro324]

Trzeba jeszcze zrobić adaptacje po OBD.

[@gdivision951]

Jaro, w jaki sposób ją przeprowadzić ? Mam OBD Carly II gen. Będę wdzięczny za info :)

[@jaro324]

@@gdivision951 nie pomogę bo robił mi to warsztat

[@gdivision951]

@@jaro324 rozumiem- pozdr

[@jaro324]

@@gdivision951 Również ✌️

[@bluechipautowerks]

Easy, baby! Great video.

[@fcpeuro]

Boom baby!

[@rogereprest]

I just figured out that that Micheal is really the lead singer from the Baby's

[@fcpeuro]

😂😂😂😂

[@SunilKumar-mm8bx]

My problem 55c3 error code

[@martymeyer4125]

Well done!

[@coolraul71]

How the hell is this well designed if its made of Plastic?!?

[@simplelangperorock]

9:48 lmao. that got me.

[@fcpeuro]

whooooopsy

[@2k20jordyn_pr6]

Saved my life!!

[@fcpeuro]

glad it was helpful!

[@vaem3872]

Gracias, me ayudo mucho

[@delta3eight]

100 dollars for that gear? I’ve seen them for barely 15 dollars

[@bengazetti4143]

what are the signs when Actuator goes bad ?

[@2004skylinegtrr34]

You get the 4x4 and brake light on the dashboard

[@Sulser007]

XMAS Tree lights up in the Dash... lol

[@thecubbybros3885]

Your title says X5… it’s a totally different job on an E70. Literally impossible to get to the actuator. You should change the title.