2015 BMW 435i XDrive Gran Coupe Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2015 BMW 435i xDrive Gran Coupe and How to Address Them

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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 2015 BMW 435i xDrive Gran Coupe 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 435i xDrive Gran Coupe 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 first steps to diagnose an oil leak in a 2015 BMW 435i xDrive?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2015 BMW 435i xDrive, start by pinpointing the source of the leak, as this is crucial for a successful repair. Common culprits include the valve cover gasket, timing cover gasket, and oil filter housing, so inspect these areas closely for any signs of oil accumulation. Regularly checking your oil levels is also essential; low oil levels can indicate a leak and lead to further engine damage if not addressed promptly. Pay attention to any visible signs of oil leakage, such as spots on the ground where you park your vehicle, a burning oil smell while the engine is running, or smoke emanating from the engine compartment. These indicators can help you determine the severity of the leak and guide you in deciding whether a simple fix is possible or if you need to consult a professional. By following this diagnostic approach, you can take the necessary steps to address the oil leak effectively and maintain your vehicle's performance.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2015 BMW 435i xDrive Gran Coupe?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2015 BMW 435i xDrive Gran Coupe, it's essential to understand the common problems that can arise. One of the primary culprits is a worn valve cover gasket, which is notorious for allowing oil to seep out, especially as the vehicle ages. Additionally, aging engine gaskets and seals can deteriorate over time, leading to leaks at various points in the engine. It's not uncommon for drivers to encounter failed seals and gaskets that may not be immediately visible, necessitating a thorough inspection to pinpoint the source of the leak. Regular maintenance and proactive inspections are crucial in identifying these issues early, helping to prevent more significant problems down the line. By being aware of these common causes, DIY enthusiasts can take the necessary steps to address oil leaks effectively and maintain the performance of their BMW.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in a 2015 BMW 435i xDrive Gran Coupe?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2015 BMW 435i xDrive Gran Coupe is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. Oil is vital for lubricating engine components, and a leak can lead to a significant loss of oil, jeopardizing the engine's performance and longevity. If left unaddressed, low oil levels can result in severe engine damage or even complete engine failure, which can be both costly and inconvenient. Moreover, the safety implications of an oil leak cannot be overlooked; oil dripping onto hot engine parts poses a fire hazard, putting both the vehicle and its occupants at risk. By promptly addressing the leak, you not only safeguard your engine from further damage but also protect yourself and others from potential safety hazards. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly to resolve any oil leak issues to ensure the continued reliability and safety of your BMW.

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2015 BMW 435i xDrive Gran Coupe Oil Leak Causes & Repairs