BMW X4 2014-2018

BMW X4 2014-2018 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical guide for the 2014-2018 BMW X4 drivetrain system, including xDrive, transfer case, differentials, and driveshaft specifications. Essential for maintenance, repair, and diagnostics.

Updated Oct 24, 2023

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2014-2018 BMW X4, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'driveshaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the relevant section from the table of contents or using the sidebar menu for quick access to specific components.

Key Specifications

Transmission Type

8-Speed Automatic / 6-Speed Manual

Maximum Torque Capacity

500 Nm (369 lb-ft)

Driveshaft Material

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP)

Transfer Case Torque Split

0-100% front/rear

Rear Differential Gear Ratio

3.15:1 (standard), 3.64:1 (optional)

Available Specifications

Transmission System

Detailed information on the transmission system, including gear ratios, torque capacity, and technical specifications

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

Gear ratios: 1st (4.714), 2nd (3.143), 3rd (2.106), 4th (1.667), 5th (1.285), 6th (1.000), 7th (0.839), 8th (0.667)
Reverse gear ratio: 3.317
Maximum torque capacity: 500 Nm (369 lb-ft)
Transmission fluid capacity: 9.5 liters (10 quarts)
Shift response time: 200 milliseconds

Manual Transmission (Optional)

6-speed manual transmission available on select models
Gear ratios: 1st (4.35), 2nd (2.50), 3rd (1.66), 4th (1.23), 5th (1.00), 6th (0.85)
Reverse gear ratio: 3.83
Maximum torque capacity: 450 Nm (332 lb-ft)
Clutch type: Single dry plate with hydraulic actuation

Note: Manual transmission is only available on certain trims and markets.

All-Wheel Drive System

Technical details of the BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system, including torque distribution and performance features

xDrive AWD System

Torque distribution: 40% front, 60% rear (default)
Dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering
Integrated with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
System weight: 75 kg (165 lbs)
Maximum torque transfer: 100% to either axle

Performance Features

Adaptive AWD system with predictive control
Hill Descent Control (HDC) for off-road driving
Integrated with Driving Experience Control modes
System response time: 100 milliseconds
Fuel efficiency optimization through decoupling rear axle

Differential and Driveshaft

Specifications and technical details of the differential and driveshaft components

Rear Differential

Type: Electronically controlled limited-slip differential
Gear ratio: 3.15:1 (standard), 3.64:1 (optional)
Maximum torque capacity: 600 Nm (443 lb-ft)
Oil capacity: 1.2 liters (1.3 quarts)
Cooling: Integrated oil cooler

Driveshaft

Material: Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP)
Length: 1,250 mm (49.2 inches)
Maximum rotational speed: 8,000 rpm
Weight: 12 kg (26.5 lbs)
Balancing tolerance: ±0.5 grams

Note: The CFRP driveshaft reduces weight and improves efficiency.

Transfer Case

Technical specifications and features of the transfer case in the BMW X4 drivetrain

Transfer Case Specifications

Type: Active torque-splitting transfer case
Torque split range: 0-100% front/rear
Maximum input torque: 700 Nm (516 lb-ft)
Oil capacity: 1.5 liters (1.6 quarts)
Weight: 25 kg (55 lbs)

Operation and Maintenance

Lubrication: Synthetic transfer case oil
Service interval: 60,000 miles or 5 years
Integrated temperature sensor for overheating protection
Sealed unit with no user-serviceable parts
Compatible with BMW diagnostic software

Search Specifications

Search by specification name, value, or description

Component Specifications

Transmission

Type: 8-speed automatic (ZF 8HP)

Part Number: 8HP45X

Fluid Type: BMW ATF-3+

Fluid Capacity: 9.5 liters

Shift Points: Upshift: 6500 rpm
Downshift: 1500 rpm

Torque Capacity: 450 Nm

Operating Temperature: -40°C to 150°C

Transfer Case

Type: All-wheel drive (xDrive)

Part Number: VTG-500

Gear Ratio: 2.81:1

Fluid Type: BMW TF-0870

Fluid Capacity: 1.2 liters

Operating Temperature: -30°C to 120°C

Differential

Front: Type: Open differential
Part Number: 33107553561
Gear Ratio: 3.15:1
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO
Fluid Capacity: 1.1 liters

Rear: Type: Limited-slip differential
Part Number: 33107553562
Gear Ratio: 3.15:1
Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XO
Fluid Capacity: 1.1 liters

Driveshaft

Material: Aluminum alloy

Length: 1.2 meters

Diameter: 80 mm

Torque Rating: 600 Nm

Operational Speed: Up to 6000 rpm

Axles

Front: Type: CV joint
Part Number: 31207553563
Torque Capacity: 450 Nm
Operational Angle: Up to 45 degrees

Rear: Type: CV joint
Part Number: 31207553564
Torque Capacity: 450 Nm
Operational Angle: Up to 45 degrees

Clutch

Type: Wet multi-plate clutch

Part Number: 21507553565

Torque Capacity: 500 Nm

Operating Temperature: -20°C to 120°C

Wear Limit: 2 mm

Propeller Shaft

Material: Carbon fiber

Length: 1.5 meters

Diameter: 90 mm

Torque Rating: 700 Nm

Operational Speed: Up to 7000 rpm

Wheel Bearings

Front: Type: Tapered roller bearing
Part Number: 31207553566
Load Capacity: 1500 kg
Operational Speed: Up to 6000 rpm

Rear: Type: Tapered roller bearing
Part Number: 31207553567
Load Capacity: 1500 kg
Operational Speed: Up to 6000 rpm

Suspension

Front: Type: MacPherson strut
Part Number: 31307553568
Spring Rate: 25 N/mm
Damping Force: 1500 N

Rear: Type: Multi-link
Part Number: 31307553569
Spring Rate: 22 N/mm
Damping Force: 1400 N

Brakes

Front: Type: Ventilated disc
Part Number: 34107553570
Diameter: 345 mm
Thickness: 30 mm

Rear: Type: Ventilated disc
Part Number: 34107553571
Diameter: 330 mm
Thickness: 28 mm

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the drivetrain system

30000

Inspect transmission fluid level
Check differential fluid level
Inspect driveshaft for wear
Check axle boots for cracks

Replace fluids if necessary

60000

Replace transmission fluid
Replace differential fluid
Inspect transfer case fluid
Check wheel bearings for play

Follow BMW recommended fluid specifications

120000

Replace transfer case fluid
Inspect clutch wear
Check propeller shaft for balance
Replace brake discs if necessary

Perform full drivetrain inspection

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

What type of drivetrain does the 2014-2018 BMW X4 use?

The 2014-2018 BMW X4 is equipped with an intelligent all-wheel-drive (AWD) system known as xDrive. This system dynamically distributes torque between the front and rear axles, with a default split of 40:60 (front:rear) under normal conditions. It can adjust torque distribution up to 100% to either axle based on driving conditions.

What is the maximum torque capacity of the drivetrain in the BMW X4?

The drivetrain in the BMW X4 is designed to handle a maximum torque output of up to 480 Nm (354 lb-ft), depending on the engine variant. The xDrive system is engineered to manage this torque efficiently across all driving conditions.

How often should the transfer case fluid be replaced in the BMW X4?

BMW recommends replacing the transfer case fluid every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as specified in the vehicle's maintenance schedule. Use only BMW-approved transfer case fluid (part number 83 22 2 352 824) to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Can the xDrive system be disabled in the BMW X4?

No, the xDrive system in the BMW X4 cannot be fully disabled. However, it can be optimized for specific driving conditions using the Driving Dynamics Control system, which includes modes like Comfort, Sport, and Eco Pro. These modes adjust the drivetrain's behavior to suit the selected driving style.

What is the recommended tire size for the BMW X4 to maintain drivetrain performance?

The recommended tire sizes for the BMW X4 vary by trim level. For example, the xDrive28i typically uses 245/50R18 tires, while the xDrive35i may use 245/45R19 or 275/40R19 tires. Using non-recommended tire sizes can affect drivetrain performance and void the warranty.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW xDrive System Overview

Coming Soon

Detailed technical guide explaining the operation, benefits, and maintenance of the xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

Transfer Case Fluid Replacement Guide

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the transfer case fluid in the BMW X4, including required tools and safety precautions.

BMW X4 Drivetrain Maintenance Schedule

Coming Soon

Official maintenance schedule for the drivetrain components, including fluid changes, inspections, and part replacements.

Tire and Wheel Specifications for BMW X4

Coming Soon

Comprehensive guide to recommended tire sizes, wheel offsets, and their impact on drivetrain performance.

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