nobody1474

I'm wondering if it's possible to convert my 535xi to 4wd instead of awd. I know that there is an app/service called xDelete, but that is $150 and requires a standalone device to function. Is it possible to program in a switch/button into the iDrive in order to toggle 4wd while keeping the car normally in rwd? Being able to do this would save me money on both gas and tires, but keep the ability to switch to 4wd if I get stuck in snow.

kd7iwp

I highly doubt you'll save anything on gas or tires as all the components will still be spinning. Sure there won't be torque going through the front components, but I don't think you'll notice at the pump. xDelete really doesn't require much as you likely already have a phone and perhaps even an OBD cable (most people on here do at least). There is no other built-in option that lets you enable/disable the front driveshaft though I suppose you could just unbolt/bolt on the front driveshaft when you so desire. I believe xDelete is the only way to alter the settings for your transfer case.

nobody1474

if I use xDelete to make it rwd, wouldn’t it disengage the front drivetrain completely?

neilv

It'll make sure the transfer case never engages but the front driveshaft, front axles and front diff will always be moving as they are all still attached to the front wheels.

In the original; You want the transfer case engaged 100% of the time so its always being powered?

kd7iwp

All xDelete does is tell the clutch pack to disengage so that torque is not transferred to the front driveshaft. The front axles, differential, and driveshaft will still always be turning since they are pushed by the front wheels. There will be no engine torque transferred through them, but you'll still have all the friction from the moving parts.