xDrive vs RWD - Transfer case issue?
 

Maybe some of you have tested your E70 2011 without 4x4 working so only as a RWD? Do you notice any difference in behavior?


Sometime ago I had a poor battery issues and the 4x4, DSC, etc. was taken to fault mode after startup (which was fixed by new battery and fault code reset). While driving the car in that moment with active faults the car felt like being a really smooth to drive and the "friction against forward movement against road" was significantly lower. I've been wondering if I have really some issues with Transfer Case if it causes so big difference between 4WD and RWD...?



If it is even an issue, have you similar issues and what could fix it? Software update or oil change + adaptations reset?

2WD is smother than AWD. Many people turn off the AWD to get a rear wheel drive feel.

Check out https://www.xdelete.app/ I don't think it works with the 8 speed trans.

Thanks for the reply.



How about what kind of behavior you have faced with 4wd when the transfer case oils are too old? Any vibrations or jerking..? When the oils are cold or warm?

I work on a client's 328xi. Very similar drive train to the e70.

He damaged his TC the oil leaked out and it burned up the clutch. We tried to just replace the oil no go. I had to replace the TC then everything back to normal.

The x-drive starts with the front disconnected and each time you start moving the TC variable clutch engages, I'm not a fan of the fact you can feel the front axle engage but once engaged it should not vibrate unless you have other drive train issues like the guibo being worn.

I have e53s and both are pre x-drive so they are full time 4wd no way to disconnect the front axle the TC is effectively open differential so you are dead in the water if a cv axle pops out of the dif but I prefer the simple TC solution to the far more complicated TC of the x-drive.

On the 328xi and I believe any x-drive you can remove the front prop shaft and the car sensing no torque will disable 4x4. My client broke his front prop and drove about half a year no Front axle drive but I can't remember if that disabled abs.