BMW Drivetrain Specialists

What is the function and purpose of the transfer case?

Cars that are designed with all-wheel-drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive depend on the transfer case to transport the power that the transmission generates to the appropriate axles of the car.

With the help of the drive shafts, this is the main purpose of the transfer case and the reason for its importance in your BMW. In a BMW, keeping all the wheels of the car working smoothly with one another is an essential task – and without the transfer case working properly it can lead to seriously noticeable performance issues that must be addressed right away to restore your BMW and prevent further damage from occurring.

The common symptoms of transfer case failure

Since BMWs are the gold standard in automotive performance and handling, it should be blaringly evident when it’s performance isn’t up to par with what you’re used to. Transfer case failure often exhibits concerning symptoms that can help the driver and their BMW specialist determine what the original cause of the problem is and how to fix it. A warning light will appear on the dashboard as in the picture shown to let you know there is an issue on your Transfer Case or 4x4 system. So, although they’re stressful and annoying to acknowledge, it’s important to be aware of what symptoms indicate transfer case failure:

Fluid Leaks

All cars including BMWs utilize various fluids that perform different functions for the engine and other systems, such as brake and coolant fluids. All fluid leaks are highly concerning, as they usually indicate your car is in need of repair. Transfer case fluid leaks are problematic and must be addressed immediately; if the fluid leaks out of the system, the various components won’t function correctly.

Odd or unusual noises coming from the engine

BMWs engines are relatively quiet, but the noises you do hear should be consistent. If you pick up on any concerning sounds that are not usual for your BMW’s daily performance, such as grinding while shifting gears, you should have it checked out right away – this could indicate a failing transfer case.

Gear-shifting troubles

Transfer case symptoms are often misdiagnosed and attributed to another failing transmission component. It’s important to remember that gear-shifting issues such as hesitation or grinding could mean that your BMW is experiencing multiple issues with the transmission that affect one another. The transfer case components should always be considered when addressing symptoms of transmission or gear-shifting problems.

When the the warning light for the BMW drivetrain malfunction appears on your dashboard, you can take a few essential steps to restore your vehicle’s functionality. Before you attempt any of these techniques, please ensure that your vehicle is in a safe location.

The easiest way to clear the coding fault if there isn’t anything wrong with your BMW is to restart the engine. Find a safe place for your BMW to be parked for a few minutes. Turn the ignition off and remove the key if you don’t have a push-button starter. Allow the vehicle to remain inactive without using the battery for at least five minutes, after five minutes restart your car.

In most situations, these will reset the BMW drivetrain malfunction. If there isn’t a problem with the vehicle, you can likely continue the trip under regular driving conditions.

But If you continue having the malfunction, drive to a safe place, turn off the engine and Contact Mayfair Gearbox. We will collect your BMW nationwide for FREE.

Let us at Mayfair take care of your BMW and get you back on the road, in no time. From BMW transmission problems to drivetrain malfunctions, we will fix it.

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