2016 BMW 328d Is Leaking Oil

Diagnosing Oil Leak Sources in Your 2016 BMW 328d and Recommended Repair Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2016 BMW 328d is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A failure in oil system components, such as a worn oil pump or clogged oil filter, can lead to inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
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 2016 BMW 328d is leaking oil?

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.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What are the steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2016 BMW 328d?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in a 2016 BMW 328d, start by identifying common sources of leaks, such as engine gaskets and oil system components, which are frequent culprits in this model. Begin your inspection by looking for oil residue around the oil filter housing, as this can often point to the leak's origin. If you don’t find any signs there, check the engine valley drain hole; a lack of residue might suggest the leak is deeper within the transmission bellhousing, possibly involving oil galley plugs or crankshaft seals. It's also important to monitor the engine temperature during your drive, as fluctuations can indicate issues related to the oil leak. If your initial checks do not reveal the source, consulting a trusted BMW specialist is advisable, as they possess the expertise to diagnose and repair more complex issues effectively. Addressing oil leaks promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to your engine, making it essential to follow these diagnostic steps carefully.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2016 BMW 328d?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2016 BMW 328d, it's crucial to understand the common problems that can arise as the vehicle ages. One of the primary culprits is the failure of oil system components, which can include issues with the oil filter, oil pan, or even the oil pump itself. Additionally, worn or deteriorating engine gaskets, particularly the valve cover gasket, are frequent sources of leaks. These gaskets can become brittle over time, leading to oil seeping out and potentially causing significant engine damage if not addressed. It's also important to inspect seals around various engine components, as these can wear down and contribute to leaks. By identifying these common issues early, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to repair or replace the affected parts, ensuring the longevity and performance of their BMW.

How urgent is the oil leak in my 2016 BMW 328d, and what are the risks of delay?

When faced with an oil leak in your 2016 BMW 328d, understanding the urgency of the situation is paramount. Oil is vital for lubricating your engine's moving parts, and any leak can compromise this essential function, leading to severe engine damage if not addressed swiftly. Moreover, the presence of oil on the road can create hazardous conditions, increasing the risk of accidents due to loss of traction. Beyond safety concerns, neglecting an oil leak can have detrimental effects on the environment, as spilled oil can contaminate soil and water sources. Additionally, the longer you wait to repair the leak, the more extensive the damage may become, resulting in significantly higher repair costs down the line. Therefore, if you notice any signs of an oil leak, it is crucial to take immediate action, whether that means consulting a mechanic or attempting a DIY repair, to safeguard your vehicle's health and ensure your safety on the road.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.