BMW Transfer case motor 27609469023

This part is a Genuine component, listed as part number 27609469023 (27-60-9-469-023) and described as Longitudinal torque module (ATC13). This motorized actuator engages the xDrive AWD system at the front differential, helping make the “xi” all wheel drive system function. 

When this part fails, the xDrive system will throw error warnings, drivetrain malfunction codes, and cause the AWD system to not properly engage. This component is a common culprit on drivetrain / AWD system problems. Fortunately it is installed externally of the transmission and differential system, and is replaceable externally make the repair not as terrible as some AWD failures on other models. 

This transfer case actuator assembly was used starting on the “G chassis” based BMW, including many different xDrive platforms. This includes the G20 3 Series, G22/G23 4 Series, G30 5 Series, G32 6 Series GT, G11/G12 7 Series, G14/G15 8 Series, G01 X3 (2017-2021), G02 X4 (2017-2021), G05 X5, G06 X6, G07 X7. These models span (rough) model years 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 (and may extend beyond 2023 on some platforms). 

What makes this actuator fail? 
The ATC / ATCX 13 transfer case motor is a fairly complex mechanical part with both moving parts and electronic / electrical components. It has a servo drive motor which can fail and required replacement as an assembly. It also has gears internally which can wear down or break, causing the transfer case to not properly engage / disengage. A common cause of premature transfer case actuator failure can come from running incorrectly sized or very unevenly worn tires (front to rear) which can cause the system to actuate incorrectly and do harm to this component (or worse, other components downstream). When the actuator fails, you may get error codes or issues while driving, such as jerking or shuddering while cornering or accelerating from low speeds and/or medium loads. 

Other part numbers, which may be associated related (such as previous and/or obsolete versions): 
27609470186 / 27 60 9 470 186 
27608485040 / 27 60 8 485 040 
27608687376 / 27 60 8 687 376 
27608697724 / 27 60 8 697 724 
27608740624 / 27 60 8 740 624