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
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.
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
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!
+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.
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.
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.
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 RUclips 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.
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...
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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?
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!
I own a 2005 X3. At the 60K milestone the transfer case issue lights came on. The dealership wanted $3K for a new one installed. I took the car to a mechanic friend who told me to ignore the lights. I’m now at 141K and have had zero issues. The lights still bother me, but the car is 15 years old and has given me no problems whatsoever.
It goes in stages. 1. Walk on egg shells 2. Get frustrated and possibly break things 3. Cuss out the fussy non-sense 4. Realized there's tricks and if it's hard... you're doing it wrong. 5. Wonder why other car makers are any less thoughtful. These are great.
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!
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.
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!
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
If you have the back of the vehicle is raised the fluid will collect at the front of the T.C. and won't spill out. The spill plug concept only works when the vehicle is level.
As for the passenger side mirror dropping down it is to assist drivers when they are parallel parking so that you can see the relationship of the tire to the curb. If you don't want the mirror to dip, just flip the switch that controls the right and driver and passenger side to the other mirror, so if it is dipping when the switch in on the passenger side mirror, just flip it to the driver side mirror and it will no longer dip.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Try replacing the Resistor on the Actuator 1st. My X3 had the same issue with the light pattern & No Engine light. I ordered a replacement actuator with the resistor included. I replaced the Actuator even though the gears were fine. It did not fix the issue, I should have disconnected the battery afterwards to clear the lights. So my mechanic replaced the resistor and reset. That took care of it. Now as to why the new actuator with a new resistor included did not fix it, it may have but I didn't reset as my OBDII device does not have all the BMW options and unable to read certain modules or clear those codes. But the Mechanic said the problem didn't clear until he replaced the resistor. It has been fine for about 3,000 miles and just started having the same issue again. Going to order another resistor and replace it 1st. I believe the root cause may still be a funky connection somewhere along the line, or fractured wire / or corroded.
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.
Just purchased the replacement gear for around $100 bucks on E-bay. There are a couple of companies selling it including the guys who were the first to manufacture it - Odometer Gears. They also have a how to video on replacing the gear. Just search X3 - Transfer Case Actuator Motor Gear Replacement
I have a 2005 BMW X3 with ABS/Brake/4x4 lights coming on and off and on again. A indy BMW repair shop found my transfer case motor faulty and needs to be replaced. Can I wait a year to get this replaced? Can I drive from Los Angeles to Dallas and back with this issue?
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 RUclips videos show completely removing the transfer case cross member. Thanks for putting out this DIY video.
Hi Chris, I also have the same symptoms on my BMW X3 and was wondering if its the transfer case problem? Since you mentioned, its the steering angle sensor, did you also hear the clicking noise when you turned off the ignition?
There was no clicking sound for my issue. I've heard that clicking sound is the worm screw making noise in broken plastic and is pricy to fix. You probably do have a bad transfer case actuator
There is another suggestion on Bimmerfest - BMW Forums > BMW Model Discussions > X Series > X3 E83 (2004 - 2010) Transfer Case Actuator potential free fix which says that you do not need to spend $800 to buy the actuator but can simply rotate the bad plastic part to 180 degrees to fix it. I wanted to hear your thoughts on this.
Yes I know why! L.E.D. lite emitting diode. It's a "Diode " the lite is actually strobeing at a very high rate!! Hence it appears as if its causing interference on camera.
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
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.
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.
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?
Effect of the battery- but also may be the straw that broke the camels back in terms of a failing motor. Run it with a good charged up bat and see if the light goes out and stays out.
For a problem like that you would need a very fancy scan tool to detect it. Most people refer to them as dealer level scan tools. Scotty Kilmer has one and I know that his can analyze all sorts of things going on in the car
Hey Brian, the plastic gear can be replace, there's a video on RUclips that shows the gear replacement procedure and the website that sells the gear. Can't post the website because it's against RUclips policy.
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?
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?
I just saw a repair kit for this on ebay for $265. The downside is, it ships from Europe. I bought something on ebay from europe and it took 2 months to ship and get thru customs. And you would have to disassemble the gearbox too.
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.........
Ok thanks anyway. The post is a bit long that's why I asked you to go there instead of posting here. if its ok with you I'll resume it and make my questions here, if not, no problem. Thanks for your time.
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.
Thanks Brian, Just did an R&R on mine. I opened it and turned the gear, although the other side was already a little worn proving that it does go round and round. Next time if fails I will order a replacement gear from Odometer Gears. Hey, the biggest hassle of the job was putting the cross bar back on. I needed three hands. Do you have a trick? DId you jack it up to get it close? Thanks again
FWIW - The car is an 06 to begin with. Also, all the lights are now deactivated. They were just off the next day. This worries me a little because my experience is that problems that disappear on their own, come back on their own.
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?
Changed the transfercase .plus New oil ,and back sensors ,my self) watching you guys. Thx. But the light stil comes on ,it says transfercase, but its New. Now gona changethe front sensor. Hate this, last option manipulate the lights , so it goes thrue control.
Hello , my car is having the exact same issue . I wanted to ask you what exactly was the root problem and what was the solution for your case . Any help you can provide would be much appreciated .
I wander if those parts are made somewhere . Did that part have a core charge? With so many people out there I would think some would. I had a BMW a while back bought it when I was working and not a disabled VET like I am now . Living off disability pay sucks. I loved the BMW but even a oil change was a task.
seen other videos where this unit comes apart in half and just change the gear. there is a guy that sells the reinforced gear for replacement at bimmerzeit...something like that
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.
I have all three lights on seconds after i turn on the car, i dont hear a clicking noise anytime after i turn the car off. Any idea if it could be the same problem?
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
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.
Once I remove what he removed I do what you said??
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
The thought of working on BMWs keeps me up at night.
You still up huh, 11 years later...
Transfer case fix no problems but dead battery
Yes all night studying
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!
+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.
+Juggernaut383 Hah, no they were trying to say his tires were behind the issue, and that it had permanently damaged the Transaxle itself.
Dave Malik
lol i love those crooks. They need to be put out of business.
i was told that too
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.
I don’t believe the actuator will click like it does in this video, if it’s just the wheel speed sensor. IIRC
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.
briansmobile1 did this issue cause your car to suddenly turn off when driving and/or a major loss in power ??
@@williamcosme7276 that happened to me... 2 days ago.... Any ideas ??
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 RUclips 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.
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...
Carlos Ramirez Thanks Carlos!
+briansmobile1 ተቴገooo
+briansmobile1 ተቴገooo
It is meant so you can view the curb when parking, especially when no rear view camera or guidance.
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.
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.
How the name this part?
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!
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.
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.
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!
No resetting was needed? The lights just went off? I replaced mine and the lights are still on
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.
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!
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.
Do you have video or link that you can share on how to rotate that? Thanks
Which plastic part? the white plastic gear on the outside or the thing we were not able to see clearly in the hole?
@@SelvaGanesh-Buzz ruclips.net/video/XUkd5xA-F-A/видео.html
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?
It controls the clutch pack inside the transfer case. It helps make the wheels hook up when needed for braking or accelerating.
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!
I own a 2005 X3. At the 60K milestone the transfer case issue lights came on. The dealership wanted $3K for a new one installed. I took the car to a mechanic friend who told me to ignore the lights. I’m now at 141K and have had zero issues. The lights still bother me, but the car is 15 years old and has given me no problems whatsoever.
It goes in stages. 1. Walk on egg shells 2. Get frustrated and possibly break things 3. Cuss out the fussy non-sense 4. Realized there's tricks and if it's hard... you're doing it wrong. 5. Wonder why other car makers are any less thoughtful. These are great.
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!
Thanks , just did this to my girls 2004 x3. Rotated the wheel. It's working great , best part it was free!!!!
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.
Thank you for the video - get this took it to my BMW dealer, and said it was a 7000.00 fix.
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!
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
Welcome to the game.
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
If you have the back of the vehicle is raised the fluid will collect at the front of the T.C. and won't spill out. The spill plug concept only works when the vehicle is level.
As for the passenger side mirror dropping down it is to assist drivers when they are parallel parking so that you can see the relationship of the tire to the curb.
If you don't want the mirror to dip, just flip the switch that controls the right and driver and passenger side to the other mirror, so if it is dipping when the switch in on the passenger side mirror, just flip it to the driver side mirror and it will no longer dip.
✔️ check!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
Try replacing the Resistor on the Actuator 1st. My X3 had the same issue with the light pattern & No Engine light. I ordered a replacement actuator with the resistor included. I replaced the Actuator even though the gears were fine. It did not fix the issue, I should have disconnected the battery afterwards to clear the lights. So my mechanic replaced the resistor and reset. That took care of it. Now as to why the new actuator with a new resistor included did not fix it, it may have but I didn't reset as my OBDII device does not have all the BMW options and unable to read certain modules or clear those codes. But the Mechanic said the problem didn't clear until he replaced the resistor. It has been fine for about 3,000 miles and just started having the same issue again. Going to order another resistor and replace it 1st. I believe the root cause may still be a funky connection somewhere along the line, or fractured wire / or corroded.
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.
I'm happy to hear that- I can imagine that working to a degree in some instances. It would be worth a try.
Thank you for this video you saved me alot of money. The BMW dealer was going to charge me over $3,000
Welcome!
Thank you much, my moms car just started Friday its been jerky when driving . I appreciate your video, im going to look into this.
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.
THANK YOU... BEST ADVICE... we were ready to sell our car...
Lmao
Robert Wallace, Me too! Now I’m kind of excited to get dirty and fix it for 10 bucks!
Man big big thanx for this explanation.You help me to fix one X3 with same problem.
You are the man! "Thank you internet".
Just purchased the replacement gear for around $100 bucks on E-bay. There are a couple of companies selling it including the guys who were the first to manufacture it - Odometer Gears. They also have a how to video on replacing the gear. Just search X3 - Transfer Case Actuator Motor Gear Replacement
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....
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.
You're welcome Mrs. Perry!
I have a 2005 BMW X3 with ABS/Brake/4x4 lights coming on and off and on again. A indy BMW repair shop found my transfer case motor faulty and needs to be replaced. Can I wait a year to get this replaced? Can I drive from Los Angeles to Dallas and back with this issue?
your videos are always so simple and easy to understand.
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 RUclips videos show completely removing the transfer case cross member. Thanks for putting out this DIY video.
Sounds like your alternator may be failing or your fuel pump. The key is to check it when it dies and see if there's no power, or no fuel pressure.
Had this exact problem, turned out to be the steering angle sensor. It was tough for the dealer to diagnose
That's reasonable- thanks for the wisdom.
Hi Chris,
I also have the same symptoms on my BMW X3 and was wondering if its the transfer case problem? Since you mentioned, its the steering angle sensor, did you also hear the clicking noise when you turned off the ignition?
There was no clicking sound for my issue. I've heard that clicking sound is the worm screw making noise in broken plastic and is pricy to fix. You probably do have a bad transfer case actuator
There is another suggestion on Bimmerfest - BMW Forums > BMW Model Discussions > X Series > X3 E83 (2004 - 2010)
Transfer Case Actuator potential free fix which says that you do not need to spend $800 to buy the actuator but can simply rotate the bad plastic part to 180 degrees to fix it. I wanted to hear your thoughts on this.
Yes I know why! L.E.D. lite emitting diode. It's a "Diode " the lite is actually strobeing at a very high rate!! Hence it appears as if its causing interference on camera.
excellent job, you are the best..!!!
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
Expensive to replace all over the servo. Still a great and very helpful vid. Thanks.
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.
Yup! Thanks RUclips! I saved a lot of money changing this thing out myself! Easy fix with the right tools
What tools did you use?
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.
Did you scan the truck for any type of error code (the trifecta of lights normally gives an error code) before you went and change the actuator?
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?
Effect of the battery- but also may be the straw that broke the camels back in terms of a failing motor. Run it with a good charged up bat and see if the light goes out and stays out.
For a problem like that you would need a very fancy scan tool to detect it. Most people refer to them as dealer level scan tools. Scotty Kilmer has one and I know that his can analyze all sorts of things going on in the car
Hey Brian, the plastic gear can be replace, there's a video on RUclips that shows the gear replacement procedure and the website that sells the gear.
Can't post the website because it's against RUclips policy.
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?
Goooood, Rick. But how did you disassembly the gear case? I think you got the current best approach for this issue.
Ran fine plug and play.
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?
Thanks man, I had the same annoying problem and I just fixed it. Thanks again
I just saw a repair kit for this on ebay for $265. The downside is, it ships from Europe. I bought something on ebay from europe and it took 2 months to ship and get thru customs. And you would have to disassemble the gearbox too.
still the best car
Reson why the mirror drop is for curbing. To get that to stop. Move thr mirror adjustment from driver to passenger .or vis versa
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.........
Thanks. That just means you're smart and you have a good car vocabulary. ; )
Ok thanks anyway. The post is a bit long that's why I asked you to go there instead of posting here. if its ok with you I'll resume it and make my questions here, if not, no problem. Thanks for your time.
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?
awesome video, thanks. Fixed my issue in 2 hours, just swapped the plastic gear
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.
BMW makes some great stuff, the materials they've been using in the last 15 years makes me a little sick though.
Thanks Brian, Just did an R&R on mine. I opened it and turned the gear, although the other side was already a little worn proving that it does go round and round. Next time if fails I will order a replacement gear from Odometer Gears. Hey, the biggest hassle of the job was putting the cross bar back on. I needed three hands. Do you have a trick? DId you jack it up to get it close?
Thanks again
FWIW - The car is an 06 to begin with. Also, all the lights are now deactivated. They were just off the next day.
This worries me a little because my experience is that problems that disappear on their own, come back on their own.
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?
Changed the transfercase .plus New oil ,and back sensors ,my self) watching you guys. Thx. But the light stil comes on ,it says transfercase, but its New. Now gona changethe front sensor. Hate this, last option manipulate the lights , so it goes thrue control.
Hello , my car is having the exact same issue . I wanted to ask you what exactly was the root problem and what was the solution for your case . Any help you can provide would be much appreciated .
Will do.
I wander if those parts are made somewhere . Did that part have a core charge? With so many people out there I would think some would. I had a BMW a while back bought it when I was working and not a disabled VET like I am now . Living off disability pay sucks.
I loved the BMW but even a oil change was a task.
I used to worry about it, I really like them for the most part now. They are overpriced for their parts though. There's no doubt about that.
I'm flattered- thanks.
You're welcome!
well done mate you have just helped me out considerably ...thank you
very good information... can I drive the car to shop for repairs or should it be towed
cool. These are decent, but I abuse them pretty bad.
seen other videos where this unit comes apart in half and just change the gear. there is a guy that sells the reinforced gear for replacement at bimmerzeit...something like that
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.
I love the Maxima too even though I drive a 240SX. It is my less expensive Ferrari. :-)
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!
When you mentioned that plastic part inside the motor, it said it all! It's a BMW, for crying out loud, why do they do this! Aaargh!
Amen to that one!
I have all three lights on seconds after i turn on the car, i dont hear a clicking noise anytime after i turn the car off. Any idea if it could be the same problem?
Manny Fit did you find out?
Yes it is the same problem I’m replacing mine right now.
Stability control and ABS function are compromised so you're skill as a driver judgment is now your source of safety.
yes.
Welcome!