xDrive transfer case actuator motor

Engine / equipment

ATC 400/500 transfer case with actuator motor (X3 E83, X5 E53 from 2004, X5 E70, X6 E71/E72)

Period mentioned

2004–2014

Symptoms

The 4x4, ABS and brake warning lights come on together while driving (often intermittently), a click or clunk under the car when switching the ignition off or on, and jerky acceleration in low gears.

Possible cause described

The plastic gear in the motor that drives the transfer case clutch wears out, and the system disables all-wheel drive, ABS and stability control to protect itself. A parts manufacturer names an excessive difference in tread depth between front and rear tyres as a common cause of the wear.

Check for the garage

Scan every module with a diagnostic tool (transfer case codes) and measure the tread depth on all four tyres. The ABS and brake lights can have other causes, such as a wheel sensor or the ABS module: confirm before replacing parts. With the brake light on, also check the fluid and do not drive if the pedal feels abnormal.

Cost cited in the source

Complete actuator motor: about $350 in a US forum case; a cheaper reinforced gear is also sold on its own. Tyres extra if wear differs between axles.A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

Sources from the original database