I have owned my 3.0D X3 from new 61 plate and have had no problems until I changed all the tyres at around18000 miles a few months ago. I then noticed a strange noise and a slight shudder when pulling away and the steering was in the full lock position. I did not take much notice of this because I was thinking it was being caused by the new tyres bedding in. I have now done around 3000 miles on the new tyres and the noise and shuddering are still there and seem to be getting worse. It does it while pulling away to the left or right and in reverse but is fine when steering is straight ahead. Has anyone experienced this problem?

I look forward to hearing any suggestions.

Thanks Mike.

X3's AWD system is very sensitive to differences in the rolling resistance of the tyres, I had the same issue with mine which was resolved by changing to OEM tyres. Are the tyres all the same tread pattern ?

Thanks bSudo for your reply. I picked up my X3 from my local BMW garage today after finally diagnosing the fault. It was the transfer box oil needed changing. I was really surprised and unhappy with this as the car was under 4 years old and had only done 20,000 miles. I was charged £336 that was reduced from £409 because I expressed how unhappy I was with the price and fault. I spoke to one of the technicians he told me that it was a serviceable part and could go at any time but admitted that it was unusual to fail at this low mileage. I am really disappointed with BMW.

That's expensive my local BMW dealer quoted me £181.60 to change the oil in the transfer case and the rear diff.

The oil for the transfer case is around £30 from BMW.

Hi Mikesmith2939.

Most of the cost was for labour trying to find the fault. The oil change itself was around £150.

Had the same problem on my 04 3.0i and it kept on stripping the actuator gear. Ended up offloading it to  a car buying company.Put me off BM's for a while but about to get another on Saturday!