I have my beloved X-3 purchased new in 2004. About 18 months ago my dash lit up like Christmas and had to replace the transfer case motor. At the same time I instructed the dealer to change the transfer case oil (65,000 miles) the tech reported extremely dirty oil. After 5000 miles had the oil changed again. Lately the 4 x4 light goes on from time to time, and now drive train vibrations like driving on old fashioned snow tires with chains or heavy studs also appears intermittently. I suspect the transfer case is now ready to give up. Question... used transfer case $1100.00 +/-, labor $500.00 - $600.00; can I disconect the transfer case and still have an operable vehicle ?? Your opinions or ideas would be sincerely appreciated Thanks, Norm.
Can't disconnect it. We use a company called Transfer Case Express in both CA and SC for less expensive rebuilts. So far they've been just fine. The front driveshaft splines are also a common problem---we get them rebuilt slightly longer at Beyer Motor Works in Phoenix. Good luck.
