2015 BMW 335i GT XDrive Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2015 BMW 335i GT xDrive and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2015 BMW 335i GT xDrive 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 2015 BMW 335i GT xDrive 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.

What are the steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2015 BMW 335i GT xDrive?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2015 BMW 335i GT xDrive, start with a thorough visual inspection of the area beneath the vehicle. Look for any oil stains or puddles that may indicate the source of the leak. Next, regularly check your oil levels; a significant drop can signal a leak that needs attention. Inspect key engine components such as gaskets, valve seals, and piston rings for any signs of oil seepage. Utilizing a bore scope can provide a closer look at hard-to-reach areas, particularly around the oil pan gasket, which is a common leak point. If these steps do not reveal the source of the leak, or if you feel uncertain about your findings, it may be wise to consult a qualified technician for a more detailed inspection. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically identify and address the oil leak issue in your BMW, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2015 BMW 335i GT xDrive?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2015 BMW 335i GT xDrive, it's crucial to understand the common problems that can arise within the vehicle's oil system. One of the primary culprits is the failure of oil system components, which can lead to significant leaks if not addressed. Additionally, worn or deteriorated engine gaskets, particularly the valve cover gasket, are frequent sources of oil leakage. Over time, gaskets and seals can degrade, resulting in leaks from various areas such as the cam cover, oil pan, or rear main seal. It's also important to consider potential vacuum leaks that may occur due to oil leakage, as well as issues with the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, which can exacerbate the problem. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential for DIY enthusiasts to catch these issues early, ensuring that any leaks are promptly repaired to maintain the vehicle's performance and prevent further damage.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in a 2015 BMW 335i GT xDrive?

Addressing an oil leak in a 2015 BMW 335i GT xDrive is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. Ignoring the signs of an oil leak, such as stains on your driveway or a burning smell from the engine, can lead to severe engine damage and costly repairs down the line. Common culprits like the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing gasket can deteriorate over time, leading to leaks that compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. If left unchecked, these leaks can result in low oil levels, which may trigger warning lights on your dashboard and ultimately lead to engine failure. Therefore, it is essential to act swiftly upon noticing any symptoms of an oil leak to safeguard your vehicle's integrity and avoid the financial burden of extensive repairs. Prioritizing this issue not only ensures the longevity of your BMW but also enhances your driving experience by maintaining optimal engine function.

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2015 BMW 335i GT xDrive Leaking Oil: Causes & Repairs