2015 BMW 640i Gran Coupe Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2015 BMW 640i 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 640i 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 640i 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 potential causes and solutions for the oil leak in a 2015 BMW 640i Gran Coupe?

When diagnosing an oil leak in your 2015 BMW 640i Gran Coupe, begin by inspecting the simplest components first. Start with the crankcase vent valve, as a faulty valve can create excess pressure, leading to oil leaks. If this part appears to be functioning correctly, move on to the gaskets and seals, particularly the valve cover gasket, which is a common culprit in older vehicles. Look for signs of wear or deterioration, as replacing these components can significantly reduce or eliminate leaks. Additionally, check the installation of the intake and downpipe; improper installation can lead to vacuum leaks that may cause oil to escape. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the oil leak, ensuring your BMW runs smoothly and efficiently.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2015 BMW 640i Gran Coupe?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2015 BMW 640i Gran Coupe, it's essential to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One of the primary issues is a worn valve cover gasket, which can lead to significant oil leakage as it encases the cylinder head and can deteriorate over time. Additionally, as the vehicle ages, the engine gaskets and seals may also deteriorate, allowing oil to escape from various seams. It's important to inspect these components regularly, as they are often the first to show signs of wear. Furthermore, problems with various oil system components can contribute to leaks, so checking for any damaged or loose parts is crucial. Other potential causes include leaking valve seals, damaged piston rings, and worn cylinder walls, which can all lead to oil escaping from the engine. By being aware of these common issues, DIY enthusiasts can better diagnose and address oil leaks, ensuring their BMW remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2015 BMW 640i Gran Coupe?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2015 BMW 640i Gran Coupe is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring the signs of an oil leak, such as oil spots on the ground or unusual smells, can lead to severe consequences, including engine overheating and catastrophic engine failure. The oil leak could stem from common problem areas like the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing, and if left unchecked, it can result in low oil levels that compromise engine lubrication. This not only affects performance but can also lead to costly repairs that could have been avoided with timely intervention. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s essential to diagnose the source of the leak quickly and take action, whether that means tightening a loose gasket or replacing a faulty seal. Remember, the longer you wait to address an oil leak, the more damage it can cause, making it crucial to act swiftly to ensure the longevity and reliability of your BMW.

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