2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe and How to Resolve Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe 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 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe 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 initial steps should I take for a check engine light on a 2016 BMW 640i?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 BMW 640i, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify and resolve the issue effectively. Start with the simplest solution by checking the gas cap; a loose or improperly sealed cap can often trigger the light, and ensuring it is tightened may resolve the problem immediately. If the light remains on, consider performing a reset by disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery, which can sometimes clear minor faults. Additionally, take advantage of free diagnostics offered by many service centers, as they can pinpoint the specific issue without any cost. However, if the check engine light begins to flash, this indicates a more serious problem that requires immediate attention to prevent further damage. Should the light persist after these initial steps, it is advisable to consult a certified BMW service center for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition. By following this structured approach, you can effectively manage the check engine light situation and maintain the performance of your BMW.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common issues that trigger this warning can empower you to take action. One of the simplest problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened or replaced if necessary. If the gas cap is secure, you may want to investigate the emissions system, as faulty sensors or a malfunctioning catalytic converter can also cause the light to illuminate. Additionally, issues with spark plugs or coil packs can lead to misfires, which are another frequent reason for the check engine light to activate. Fuel system problems, such as a failing fuel pump or clogged injectors, should also be considered, as they can disrupt the engine's performance. Lastly, keep an eye out for any unusual engine behavior, as various mechanical or electrical issues could be at play. Addressing these problems promptly is crucial to prevent further damage, especially if the light is flashing, indicating a more serious issue that requires immediate attention. By being proactive and informed, you can tackle these common check engine light triggers effectively.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe?

When the check engine light in your 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe begins to flash, it is essential to recognize this as a serious warning that demands immediate action. A flashing light indicates a severe issue that, if ignored, could lead to extensive damage to your vehicle's engine or other vital components. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated; delaying inspection and repair can result in costly repairs and compromise your vehicle's safety and performance. It is advisable to have your car checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose the underlying problem. By addressing the flashing check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your investment but also ensure the continued reliability and efficiency of 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.