Transmission issue

[Al4693]

My 2005 3.0d E53 auto is making rumbling noises in 1st and 2nd gears and also thuds and thumps before changing into 3rd when all then becomes normal. In addition in 1st when pulling away the car pulls strongly to the left. I am at a loss to understand whether this is an autobox or transfer case fault. Does anybody have any ideas please?

[X5Sport]

First

Second it sounds like you need to get it into either a BMW Dealership, or Independant that can read the error codes to see what is recorded.  That will point you at the right place to look.  Not all errors throw a warning light.

If not then kkx5 is our resident transmission expert and may be able to give you a clue from your description of symptoms.

[Al4693]

Many thanks X5Sport! We did plug and note that a transfer case fault was showing. I do have it booked in with an Independant.

[Al4693]

Plug IN that should read! ... :-[

[kkx5]

Fuse 46 out and test drive it.

[X5-D-Sport]

what does fuse 46 do ?

[kkx5]

Fuse 46 switches off xdrive system.

[X5-D-Sport]

I presume X-Drive is the center diff lock ??

[kkx5]

Yes.

[henrym3]

reading this you will forgive my ignorance but if you remove F46 does that turn the vehicle into a 2 wheel drive or make it into the previous system of being an "all wheel drive" but with no diff lock?

[kkx5]

2 wheel drive only, Rwd. All power goes 100% to rear wheels, no 4x4, no abs, no dsc.

[Al4693]

That's very useful to know m, I shall try that - thanks Kkx5!

[Al4693]

Yep, with the fuse removed the symptoms disappeared. Couple of questions arising - 1. is it ok for me to drive it like this for a short period accepting loss of abs etc. I'm thinking damage to the front dif or other parts. 2. Is this a full transfer case overhaul/replacement issue or will it be the actuator at fault?
Many thanks for the help.

[Horizon]

KKX5 runs a garage in Lancashire that overhauls transfer boxes. Not too far from Cheshire. PM him for advice

[Al4693]

Many thanks, I will do that.