2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe Is Leaking Oil

Diagnosing Oil Leak Sources in Your 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe and Recommended Repair Solutions

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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 2016 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 2016 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 steps to diagnose an oil leak in a 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe?

When diagnosing an oil leak in a 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with a thorough visual inspection. Start by examining the undercarriage and engine bay for any visible signs of oil, such as puddles or residue around the oil pan and other components. Regularly checking your oil levels can also provide insight; a significant drop may indicate a leak that needs attention. To pinpoint the source more accurately, consider using UV dye, which can illuminate the leak under UV light, making it easier to identify. If the leak remains elusive, conducting a pressure test on the oil system can help reveal its location. Pay special attention to common leak points known in BMWs, such as the valve cover gasket, as these are often culprits. If your efforts do not yield results, consulting a trusted independent BMW specialist can provide a more comprehensive diagnosis. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address oil leaks in your vehicle, ensuring it remains in optimal condition.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe, it's essential to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is a worn valve cover gasket, which can allow oil to escape from the engine, leading to noticeable leaks. Additionally, the alternator bracket seal or O-ring is another potential source of leaks, particularly in the N62 engine variants, where failure can result in significant oil loss. The oil filter housing gasket is also prone to leaks, often becoming evident when the vehicle is stationary, as oil drips onto the exhaust. Furthermore, the oil pan gasket can deteriorate over time, necessitating replacement to prevent ongoing leakage. Lastly, don’t overlook the transmission seals, gaskets, or cooler lines, as leaks in these areas can lead to fluid loss and may cause serious transmission issues if not addressed promptly. By being aware of these common problems, DIYers can better diagnose and tackle oil leaks in their BMW 640i Gran Coupe.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. Ignoring an oil leak can lead to severe engine stress, resulting in diminished performance and increased risk of overheating. This can escalate to catastrophic engine failure, which is not only inconvenient but also incredibly costly to repair or replace. The engine is the heart of your vehicle, and any damage can lead to extensive repairs that could range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Common leak sources, such as the valve cover or oil pan gaskets, can be identified and repaired relatively easily, but delaying these repairs can exacerbate the problem, leading to more complex issues and higher repair bills. Therefore, it is essential to act swiftly to mitigate risks, maintain optimal engine performance, and protect your investment in your BMW.

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2016 BMW 640i Gran Coupe Oil Leak Causes & Repairs