2018 BMW 440i XDrive Gran Coupe Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2018 BMW 440i xDrive Gran Coupe and How to Address Them

Find Repair Location
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 2018 BMW 440i xDrive Gran Coupe 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 2018 BMW 440i 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.

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 potential causes of an oil leak in a 2018 BMW 440i xDrive Gran Coupe, and how should I diagnose it?

When faced with an oil leak in your 2018 BMW 440i xDrive Gran Coupe, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle, looking for any signs of oil puddles or drips beneath the car, as this can provide immediate clues about the leak's location. Next, regularly check your oil levels; a significant drop can indicate a leak that needs addressing. Pay close attention to the gaskets and seals, as worn or damaged components are common culprits. If the source remains elusive, consider conducting a pressure test to help pinpoint the leak's origin. For a more advanced method, adding UV dye to the oil can illuminate the leak under UV light, making it easier to trace. If these steps do not yield results, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable to ensure a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and resolve oil leaks, maintaining the performance and integrity of your BMW.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2018 BMW 440i xDrive Gran Coupe?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a 2018 BMW 440i xDrive Gran Coupe, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One of the primary causes is the degradation of gaskets and seals, which can occur over time due to exposure to heat and engine vibrations. This wear can lead to leaks that may not be immediately visible. Additionally, the oil pan itself can sustain damage from road debris or corrosion, resulting in oil seeping out. Another frequent issue is the valve cover gasket, which can become brittle and worn, leading to leaks that can affect engine performance. The oil filter housing gasket is also a potential source of leaks, as it can fail and allow oil to escape. Lastly, don’t overlook the drain plug seal; if it’s improperly installed or damaged, it can lead to significant oil loss. By being aware of these common issues, DIYers can take proactive steps to inspect and maintain their vehicle, ensuring that any leaks are addressed promptly to avoid further engine damage. Regular maintenance checks are essential for early detection and resolution of these oil leak problems.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2018 BMW 440i xDrive Gran Coupe?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2018 BMW 440i xDrive Gran Coupe is of utmost urgency due to the serious risks associated with neglecting this issue. An oil leak can lead to a significant loss of lubrication, which is essential for the smooth operation of your engine. Without adequate lubrication, the engine can overheat, resulting in severe damage to critical components that may require costly repairs or even complete engine replacement. Moreover, an oil leak poses safety hazards; leaking oil can create slippery road conditions, increasing the risk of accidents for you and other drivers. Financially, delaying repairs can lead to escalating costs as minor leaks can evolve into major issues over time. By addressing the oil leak promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity but also ensure your safety and that of others on the road. Therefore, it is crucial to take immediate action to resolve any oil leak issues in your BMW.

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.

2018 BMW 440i xDrive Gran Coupe Oil Leak Causes & Repairs