C0511
Transfer Case Shift Motor Stalled
1999-2000 BMW 528iT E39 2.8L I6 🇩🇪
High SeverityChassis
Description
The transfer case shift motor stalled during a shift operation, indicating mechanical resistance.
Symptoms
- 4WD warning light
- Shift incomplete
- Grinding or buzzing from transfer case area
- Stuck between ranges
Common Causes
- Transfer case internal damage
- Low transfer case fluid
- Motor gear teeth stripped
- Shift fork bent or binding
- Excessive corrosion from infrequent use
Diagnostic Steps
- Check transfer case fluid level and condition
- Attempt manual override shift if available
- Inspect shift motor gear teeth
- Check for internal transfer case damage
- Test motor current draw during shift attempt
Repair Notes
Service transfer case. Replace shift motor if gear is stripped. Repair internal components if binding.
Related Codes
Other Chassis Codes
- C0021LF Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0022RF Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0023LR Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0024RR Wheel Speed Sensor Range/Performance
- C0025LF Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0026RF Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0027LR Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0028RR Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- C0035Left Front Wheel Speed Sensor Circuit
- C0036Left Front Wheel Speed Signal Erratic
C0511 on Other Vehicles
Common Questions
What does code C0511 mean on a 1999-2000 BMW 528iT E39?
C0511 stands for "Transfer Case Shift Motor Stalled". The transfer case shift motor stalled during a shift operation, indicating mechanical resistance.
What are the symptoms of C0511 on a BMW 528iT E39?
Common symptoms of C0511 include: 4WD warning light, Shift incomplete, Grinding or buzzing from transfer case area, Stuck between ranges.
What causes C0511 on a 1999-2000 BMW 528iT E39?
Common causes of C0511 include: Transfer case internal damage, Low transfer case fluid, Motor gear teeth stripped, Shift fork bent or binding, Excessive corrosion from infrequent use.