Regeneration of xDrive transfer cases

Thanks to the BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system, each axle uses its traction to the maximum. Your BMW

ensures stable cornering. If it is necessary to transfer more force to the road – especially during difficult

driving conditions – the Dynamic Stability Control System (DSC) enters the action. In addition to improving

traction, the system also recognizes the first signs of over- and understeer. In a fraction of a second, it

transfers up to 100% of the engine’s power to the front or rear axle via the gearbox and the electronically

controlled multi-disc clutch, then returns to the standard 40:60 ratio. Thanks to this technology, the four-

wheel drive system has all the benefits of rear-wheel drive. Provides precise handling, optimum cornering

and a clear separation between the engine and the steering.

In addition to the above-mentioned benefits, the xDrive system sooner or later begins to fail. The VTG

switchbox (reducer) corresponds to the incorrect operation of the 4 × 4 drive system, but why it breaks

down? The answer is simple – because it is to be broken, the limit of strength of such a chest usually does

not exceed 200,000 km. Damage can take place much earlier, for ex. thanks to the inappropriate choice of

tires, as well as oil, insufficient quantity, or lack thereof. At this point it is worth noting that oil should be

changed every 50-60 thousand km in the distribution box. When deciding on a BMW xDrive, always install 4

tires from the same manufacturer. Tires of the same tread height are best according to manufacturer’s

recommendations. Incorrectly matched tires or unevenly worn between the front and rear axles by up to 2

mm! They will cause jerking which directly affects the reduction of the regulator.

It should be remembered that the transfer case is only switched on during the drive. If you feel jerking when

you release the gas – “holding” the car, the box may not have been damaged and it is the fault of tires only. In

the case when “jerking” occurs while driving, i.e. adding gas, starting, turning, driving at the roundabout, etc.

This is an obvious defect of the reducer provided that other mechanical defects are ruled out.

Another typical symptom of a damaged box is a “howl” caused by damage to the clutch basket bearings. The

most common defect is the 4 × 4 lights, abs, the handbrake. In most cases, they indicate damage to the

gearbox actuator (mechanical or electrical damage). We know from experience that the regeneration of the

actuator usually helps for a short time, which results in refurbishment of the distribution box.