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floriandunkel3

BMW iX Transfer Case Warning: What You Need to Know

BMW iX Transfer Case Issues, Need Help! Hey everyone! Having some trouble with my 2021 BMW iX (76,400 km) and would appreciate input from anyone who's dealt with similar issues. The car's having transfer case problems, going into limp mode, gearbox isn't shifting smoothly, and getting unusual warning lights in the dash. Also experiencing some jerking while driving. Had a not-so-great experience with my last mechanic, so I'm looking for recommendations on what could be wrong and whether anyone has dealt with these symptoms before? Really want to get this sorted but want to be better informed before heading back to a shop. Thanks in advance for any help!

4 comment(s)

alfredflame4

Hey there! I've been through something similar with my 2018 BMW i3s. Those symptoms you're describing sound very familiar. Last month, I had mine at the garage with comparable issues. What looked like a transfer case problem turned out to be linked to the ABS module malfunction. The faulty ABS sensors were sending incorrect signals, causing the car to go into limp mode and triggering multiple warning lights. In my case, they had to replace the ABS module and recalibrate the entire system. It was quite serious because the fault had started affecting other components, the traction control system was going haywire, and the regenerative braking wasn't working properly either. The fix wasn't just about replacing parts. They had to do a complete diagnostic scan because these systems are all interconnected in electric BMWs. After fixing the ABS module, they found and fixed some consequential damage to the power electronics control unit. Not trying to scare you, but I'd recommend getting it checked soon. These issues tend to compound if left unaddressed.

floriandunkel3 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your experience! That really helps as I'm dealing with something similar. It's interesting that your ABS module was the root cause, definitely gives me something to consider. I'm curious though, do you recall how much you ended up paying for the whole repair? Also, has everything been running smoothly since the fix, or have you noticed any other quirks?

alfredflame4

Hey again! Great to hear back from you. I've got some good news to share! Since my last mechanic visit, my i3s has been running like a dream, no more transfer case limp mode or any other weird behavior. The best part? It didn't cost me anything! The whole repair was covered since they found it was related to a known ABS system issue. They did a thorough diagnostic scan, fixed the ABS module problems, and sorted out all those consequential faults I mentioned before. And to answer your question about how it's running now, honestly, it's like having a different car. No more jerking, no warning lights, and the gearbox is shifting super smoothly. The traction control and regenerative braking are working perfectly too. Even my wife noticed the difference on her first drive after the repair! Just make sure you get it checked out soon, having a proper diagnosis really makes all the difference. I'm actually glad I shared my experience since it seems to be helping others with similar issues. Feel free to ask if you need any more details about what they did during the repair!

floriandunkel3 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed follow-up! Just wanted to update you on my situation. Finally took my iX to a new mechanic yesterday and wow, what a different experience! The guy actually listened to my concerns and did a full diagnostic check. Turns out you were spot on, it was an ABS system malfunction causing all these issues. The repair took about a day, and they found some additional sensor problems that needed fixing. Unlike your lucky break with warranty coverage, I had to pay since mine was just out of warranty. Cost me quite a bit, but honestly, it was worth every penny. The car's driving like new again, no more jerking, warning lights are gone, and the transmission's working perfectly. Really appreciate you sharing your experience, it helped me go in more informed and confident about what needed checking. Definitely learned my lesson about not waiting too long when these issues pop up. Thanks again for all your help!

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