Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
xDrive: Four-wheel drive
The VTG control unit employs the servomotor and the multiple-disc clutch assembly in the VTG for infinitely-variable distribution of drive torque. This process distributes the drive torque between the front and rear axles according to their respective requirements. The rear axle is always powered. This means that all of the drive torque is applied to the rear axle when the multidisc clutch is separated. The drive torque is distributed as follows in normal driving with four-wheel drive:
- 40 % to the front axle
- 60 % to the rear axle
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) specifies the setpoint value for xDrive all-wheel control. The setpoint value varies according to the vehicle's instantaneous tendency toward oversteer or understeer and the wheel-slip rates. The setpoint value is transmitted to the VTG control unit.
The VTG control unit regulates the lockup torque of the multiple-disk clutch assembly in the transfer case.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.