2016 BMW 435i Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2016 BMW 435i and How to Address Them Effectively

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 435i 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 435i 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 2016 BMW 435i?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2016 BMW 435i, start by identifying the source of the leak, as this is crucial for determining the necessary repairs. Common culprits include the valve cover gasket, timing cover gasket, and oil filter housing, so inspect these areas first. Regularly checking your oil levels can also provide insight into potential leaks; a sudden drop in oil levels may indicate a problem. Pay close attention to the top engine components, particularly around the turbocharger oil lines, as oil accumulation in these areas can signal a leak. If you notice sweating around the oil pan gasket, consider replacing the copper washer for the drain plug as a preliminary fix before delving into more extensive repairs like gasket replacement. By following this diagnostic approach, you can systematically address the issue, ensuring your BMW remains in optimal condition.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2016 BMW 435i, and how can they be diagnosed?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2016 BMW 435i, it's essential to understand the common problems that can arise and how to diagnose them effectively. One of the primary culprits is worn-out gaskets and seals, particularly the valve cover gasket, which can deteriorate over time, leading to oil escaping from the engine. Another frequent issue is leaks from the oil filter housing gasket, which can sometimes be confused with oil pan leaks. Additionally, failures in engine components, such as the oil system or oil filter cap, can contribute to oil leaks. If you notice engine oil in areas like the turbocharger oil lines, this could indicate a more serious issue. To diagnose these leaks, start with a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay and the area beneath the vehicle, looking for any visible signs of oil. Pay attention to the distinct smell and texture of engine oil, as these can help confirm the presence of a leak. Noting the location of any drips can also provide valuable clues about the source of the problem. If you're uncertain about your findings, consulting a certified technician for a professional inspection is advisable to accurately pinpoint the leak's origin. By following these steps, you can effectively identify and address oil leaks in your BMW, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2016 BMW 435i?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2016 BMW 435i is not just a matter of convenience; it is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. Ignoring this problem can lead to severe engine stress, resulting in diminished performance and an increased risk of overheating. The longer you wait, the more likely you are to face catastrophic engine failure, which can lead to repair costs that far exceed the initial expense of fixing the leak. Common culprits of oil leaks in BMWs include gaskets and seals, often located in hard-to-reach areas, making it essential to accurately identify the source of the leak for effective repair. Even if the leak is not visibly apparent, the consequences of low oil levels can escalate quickly, leading to significant engine damage over time. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly, not only to safeguard your vehicle's performance but also to prevent costly repairs down the line. Taking proactive measures after the repair, such as regular inspections and maintenance, can further help in avoiding future leaks and ensuring the longevity of your engine.

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.