2012 BMW 135i Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2012 BMW 135i and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2012 BMW 135i engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2012 BMW 135i engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2012 BMW 135i engine is stalling?

When diagnosing a stalling issue in a 2012 BMW 135i, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach that begins with the most straightforward checks. Start by connecting an OBD-II scanner to your vehicle to retrieve any error codes, as these codes can provide valuable insights into potential problems. If no codes are present, consider the build date of your vehicle, as earlier models may exhibit specific cold start issues that could lead to stalling, particularly in colder climates. Additionally, evaluate the auto start/stop feature, which has been known to cause stalling in some cases; disabling this feature temporarily can help determine if it is the culprit. Engaging with online forums and communities dedicated to BMW vehicles can also yield helpful information regarding common stalling issues, such as DCT lag or idle problems. Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of regular preventive maintenance; ensuring that your engine is well-maintained can significantly reduce the likelihood of stalling and enhance overall performance. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the causes of the stalling issue and take appropriate action to resolve it.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2012 BMW 135i?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2012 BMW 135i, it's essential to understand the common problems that may be at play. One prevalent issue is the car stalling unexpectedly, particularly when coming to a stop, which can be alarming in traffic. This stalling can often be accompanied by erratic RPM behavior, where the engine speed fluctuates between 500 and 1000 RPM, causing the vehicle to lurch. Additionally, sudden bursts of engine speed can occur, leading to stalling just before the car comes to a halt. A critical component to inspect is the high-pressure fuel pump, as any malfunction here can result in insufficient fuel flow, diminishing engine power and increasing the likelihood of stalling. For DIY enthusiasts, regular maintenance checks and inspections of these components can help mitigate these issues, ensuring a smoother driving experience and potentially saving on costly repairs.

How urgent is it to address the engine stalling issue in a 2012 BMW 135i?

Addressing the engine stalling issue in a 2012 BMW 135i is of utmost urgency due to the significant safety risks it poses. Stalling can occur unexpectedly, leading to a sudden loss of power that can be particularly dangerous in high-traffic situations or while navigating challenging road conditions. Moreover, the root causes of stalling can range from minor to severe, and early identification is crucial to prevent more extensive damage to the engine. Ignoring these symptoms not only risks escalating the problem but can also result in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to stalling issues are essential for ensuring the vehicle's optimal performance and longevity. Therefore, it is imperative for BMW 135i owners to prioritize addressing engine stalling to maintain both safety and reliability on the road.

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2012 BMW 135i Engine Stalling: Causes & Repairs | RepairPal