What to Do About Transfer Case Failure in Your BMW

BMWs are exceptional cars. Besides they’re ongoing popularity since their emergence in the auto industry, BMWs are established in many ways as one of the most reliable, consistent, and high-performing brands out there. However, common problems such as transfer case failure can put a damper on the driving experience, even if it is something that many drivers encounter each year. In this article, we’ll go over what the transfer case does for your BMW, in addition to what you can do to avoid transfer case failure and keep your car functioning optimally.

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. 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.

How to act proactively in preventing transfer case failure

Ongoing automotive care for your BMW should never be neglected, and with the help of a BMW specialist you’ll be able to attend to issues more effectively, more accurately, and more efficiently. Besides hiring a BMW specialist, here’s what else you can do:

• Follow routine maintenance practices designated by the BMW manufacturer in your owner’s manual.
• Don’t let symptoms of transfer case failure or other transmission issues go without attention for any extended period of time.
• Pay close attention to how your BMW performs on a daily basis to be able to detect warning signs of transfer case failure early on.
• Ensure that your BMW shop uses only the highest quality replacement parts.

The benefits of proactive, preventive care

Staying on top of automotive maintenance isn’t easy or affordable at times, but with the help of the right automotive shop you’ll find that auto care doesn’t have to be the hassle or financial burden it’s made out to be. Here are some of the benefits of keeping up with your routine maintenance and following up on concerning performance issues:

• Retains your BMW’s value
• Sustains the impeccable driving experience
• Keeps your car running reliably and optimally at all times
• Ensures your safety and security on the road

If you live in the areas of Carrolton and Dallas, TX, and are looking for the help of an honest, affordable shop that caters to BMW drivers, the experts here at Ultimate Bimmer Service are your best bet. Transfer case failure is a serious issue that can be costly to repair the longer it goes unaddressed. To learn more about our shop’s expertise or to schedule a diagnostic appointment, please contact us today.

* BMW 4-series Cars image credit goes to: chasdesign.

* BMW F26 X4 image credit goes to: DarthArt.