2014 BMW 535d XDrive Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2014 BMW 535d xDrive: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2014 BMW 535d 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 2014 BMW 535d 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.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2014 BMW 535d xDrive?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2014 BMW 535d xDrive, the first step is to check the gas cap. A loose or improperly sealed gas cap can trigger the light, especially if it occurs shortly after refueling. If the gas cap is secure, the next logical step is to use an OBD2 scanner to retrieve any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). This tool will help pinpoint the specific sensor or component that may be malfunctioning. If the codes indicate a more complex issue or if the check engine light remains illuminated after addressing the gas cap, it may be time to consult a qualified mechanic. They can utilize advanced diagnostic equipment to provide a thorough analysis of the vehicle's systems. Common culprits for the check engine light in BMWs include oxygen sensor failures, which monitor exhaust emissions. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and determine whether a simple fix or professional help is needed.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 2014 BMW 535d xDrive?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2014 BMW 535d xDrive, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common issues can empower you to take action. One prevalent cause is a faulty oxygen sensor, which is vital for monitoring the exhaust system's oxygen levels to optimize fuel efficiency and emissions. If this sensor malfunctions, it can lead to poor engine performance and increased emissions, making it essential to check and replace it if necessary. Another frequent culprit is a loose or damaged gas cap; this seemingly minor issue can trigger the check engine light by allowing fuel vapors to escape, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also lead to more significant problems if left unaddressed. Additionally, electrical problems within the vehicle can cause the check engine light to activate, often accompanied by other symptoms such as erratic engine behavior. By being aware of these common issues, you can take the first steps toward diagnosing the problem, whether that means tightening the gas cap, replacing the oxygen sensor, or investigating potential electrical faults, ultimately ensuring your BMW runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2014 BMW 535d xDrive?

Addressing the check engine light in a 2014 BMW 535d xDrive is of utmost urgency, especially when the light begins to flash. A flashing check engine light is not just a benign warning; it indicates a serious issue that could lead to catastrophic engine damage if left unchecked. For DIYers, this means that immediate action is necessary to diagnose and resolve the underlying problem, which could range from a simple misfire to more complex issues affecting the vehicle's catalytic converter. Ignoring this warning can result in costly repairs and potentially compromise the safety and performance of the vehicle. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize this warning and take the necessary steps to investigate and rectify the issue promptly, ensuring the longevity and reliability of your BMW.

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2014 BMW 535d xDrive Check Engine Light Guide | RepairPal