BMW 335i GT XDrive Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your BMW 335i GT xDrive and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a BMW 335i GT xDrive has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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 335i GT xDrive has a check engine light?

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.

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.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

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.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a BMW 335i GT xDrive

When faced with a check engine light in your BMW 335i GT xDrive, the first step is to locate the OBD plug, typically found under the dashboard near the steering column. Connecting an OBD scanner to this port allows you to read the trouble codes that triggered the light. These codes provide valuable insights into the underlying issues, which can range from minor sensor malfunctions to more serious engine problems. Begin by addressing any simple fixes indicated by the codes, such as replacing a faulty gas cap or a worn-out sensor. If the light persists, delve deeper into potential causes, including issues with the Engine Control Module (ECM) or the vehicle's emission and ignition systems. A thorough diagnostic process is essential, as the check engine light can be linked to various systems within the vehicle. By systematically assessing each component, you can effectively identify and resolve the issue, ensuring your BMW runs smoothly and efficiently.

What Could Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a BMW 335i GT xDrive?

When the check engine light comes on in your BMW 335i GT xDrive, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring the air-fuel mixture and can lead to decreased fuel efficiency if not addressed. Additionally, electrical issues such as a weak battery or faulty alternator can trigger the light, indicating that your vehicle's electrical system may need attention. A surprisingly simple cause can be a loose or damaged gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's pressure. Engine malfunctions, including various component failures, can also illuminate the check engine light, signaling that something is amiss under the hood. Lastly, a vacuum leak can lead to symptoms like rough idling or engine stalls, making it essential to inspect hoses and connections for any signs of wear or damage. While some of these issues can be diagnosed and resolved at home, it’s crucial to monitor the situation closely and seek professional help if the light persists, as ignoring it could lead to more significant problems down the line.

Why is the Check Engine Light On in a BMW 335i GT xDrive?

When the Check Engine Light illuminates in your BMW 335i GT xDrive, it serves as a critical alert that should not be ignored. Neglecting this warning can lead to a range of consequences, from minor inconveniences to severe mechanical failures that could compromise your vehicle's safety and performance. For instance, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor or a faulty emissions component can not only affect your car's efficiency but also lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed. Additionally, issues like a loose gas cap may seem trivial, yet they can trigger more significant problems over time, such as fuel leaks or engine damage. By promptly diagnosing and resolving the underlying issues indicated by the Check Engine Light, you not only safeguard your vehicle's integrity but also enhance its longevity and reliability. Therefore, it is crucial to take immediate action, whether through professional diagnostics or using a scanner tool, to ensure your BMW remains in optimal condition and to prevent potential safety hazards on the road.

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