Xdrive or not?

[JF1980]

[quote="greg1980"]
Could you forward me that bulletin or link to it. I want fill it up with the correct fluid but BMW Insist that they gave me the correct fluid as they have done the search by VIN number.
[/quote]

If you tell them to go in to the service system (I have TIS but I think they now have a newer system), they can put in the car VIN, then in to 'SI Operating Fluids' and find the transfer case.  That's the screenshot I posted above.  I know it's confusing, BMW have not done a good job of educating their parts people about this.  Also the parts people don't all seem to be that bright, the one I initially spoke with suggested only then newer X5's with the 'xDrive' badge on the sides have the xDrive system...  ::)

[greg1980]

I have already spoken to them they going to check that tomorrow in the service department.

[greg1980]

Hi,

I have eventually managed to convince them that they sold me incorrect fluid in the first place. So I have the right one already in the transfer case, which means I have completed the FULL service now only thing is to enjoy  the x5 now. Thanks for all the advice.

[JF1980]

Cool, glad you got it sorted out.

[stevesx5]

Hey all - new member here and I hate to beat a dead horse but the conflicting information I've received from 3 different dealers and 2 online parts stores that sell the replacement gear I just had to make a post as you all seem the most educated on figuring out whether it's Xdrive or not.  I did read through the thread and other threads and still for the life of me can't figure it out.  I apologize if it's an easy thing to decipher, but it boggles my mind how much service depts that you're supposed to trust with your vehicle differ...

The vehicle in question is an '05 X5 3.0.  Production date per realoem shows 03/2005.

When doing the search on realoem I get this:





So I see the Transfer Case ATC500 as discussed before...but I also see the Transfer Case NV125...so not sure what I have.  Can anyone here give me a conclusive answer once and for all?  It would really really mean a lot!  Thanks for the time and I apologize again for bumping an old thread for a beaten topic.

[X5Sport]

The NV125 transfer box is a non-variable unit and was used on pre-facelift models (built before mid-2003) that do not have the Xdrive system.  Those cars were not Xdrive, just AWD.

Facelifted models (which yours being a 2005 build will be) of the E53 use the ATC500 unit as that is the key part of the Xdrive system.

[kkx5]

[stevesx5]

Great, thanks for the help X5Sport!