BMW 335d Is Leaking Oil

Discover the Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Your BMW 335d and How to Address Them Effectively

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 BMW 335d is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in 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 BMW 335d 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.

An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. However, many vehicles have plastic trays underneath the engine that may catch leaking oil and conceal the leak. In such cases, a low oil level, a burning oil smell, or even smoke from oil burning in the engine bay may be noted.

»MORE: Signs of a bad oil pan gasket

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.

How to Diagnose and Fix Oil Leaks in a BMW 335d?

To effectively diagnose and fix oil leaks in your BMW 335d, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Begin by identifying common leak sources such as gaskets, oil pans, and seals, as these are frequent culprits. Next, inspect the underside of the vehicle for any visible oil leaks, as this can help you pinpoint the problem area and prevent further damage to critical components. Pay special attention to the intake manifold; if you notice oil dripping down the back of the engine, it may indicate issues with the swirl flaps, valve cover gasket, or other related seals. Additionally, check the engine valley drain hole for oil residue, as a lack of oil here could suggest a leak within the transmission bellhousing. Finally, don’t overlook the oil filter cap; ensure it is securely tightened, aligning any markers on the cap and housing, and apply the correct torque if necessary. By following this diagnostic approach, you can efficiently address oil leaks and maintain the health of your BMW 335d.

How to Address Oil Leaks in a BMW 335d?

When tackling oil leaks in a BMW 335d, it's crucial to understand the common problem areas that may be contributing to the issue. Start by inspecting the intercooler area, as leaks often occur beneath the intake and between the oil pan and transmission filter. Additionally, the swirl flaps and turbo oil feed return pipe are notorious for developing leaks, so be sure to check these components closely. Another potential source of oil leakage is the intake manifold, which can allow oil to drip down the back of the engine, leading to pooling on the ground. The oil cooler, typically located on the right side of the engine, should also be examined, as it may be the source of the leak. To effectively address these issues, begin by identifying the exact source of the leak through careful inspection. If you find any faulty components, such as the swirl flaps or oil cooler, replacing them can help prevent further leaks. However, if you're uncertain about the diagnosis or repair process, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure your BMW 335d remains in optimal condition. By promptly addressing oil leaks, you can safeguard your engine's performance and longevity.

Why is it Urgent to Address Oil Leaks in a BMW 335d?

Addressing oil leaks in your BMW 335d is not just a matter of maintenance; it is a crucial step in safeguarding your vehicle's performance and longevity. Even minor oil leaks can lead to significant engine strain, potentially culminating in catastrophic failure if left unchecked. The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated, as oil leaks often stem from failing seals or gaskets, such as the valve cover or oil pan gaskets. Ignoring these leaks can result in further damage to the engine and other vital components, leading to costly repairs that could have been easily avoided. By promptly identifying and repairing oil leaks, you not only enhance your vehicle's efficiency but also ensure a safer driving experience, making it imperative for any DIY enthusiast to take action at the first sign of trouble.

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