Transmission & xDrive

Axle differential

Lets driven wheels turn at different speeds in a corner.

Drag to turn it Open in the 3D lab
Where it sits

In a driven axle housing or transaxle.

How it works

A gear arrangement distributes torque while permitting left-right speed difference.

Think of it as

A power splitter that allows two outputs to take different paths.

Symptoms when it fails

Whine, leaks or clunks may also involve bearings, shafts or mounts.

Lifespan

Use the exact gearbox and axle service guidance. Loads, seals, lubricant condition and driving use influence wear.

Repair cost

An accessible mount or seal differs from internal transmission work. Gearbox identification and diagnosis are essential to a useful quote.

The BMW angle

A conventional BMW differential and an Active M Differential have different control capabilities.

Used in

BMW rear-drive, front-drive and xDrive applications as equipped; layouts differ by platform.

Sources
Same system

Transmission & xDrive