BMW 640i XDrive Gran Coupe Is Leaking Oil

Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Your BMW 640i xDrive 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 BMW 640i 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 BMW 640i 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.

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.

How to Diagnose and Fix Oil Leaks in a BMW 640i xDrive Gran Coupe?

When diagnosing and fixing oil leaks in your BMW 640i xDrive Gran Coupe, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the most accessible checks before delving into more complex issues. Start by identifying common leak sources, such as oil stains on the ground or a burning smell from the engine bay, which can indicate where the problem lies. Inspect the engine bay and the area underneath the car for visible oil seepage, and check the dipstick for low oil levels, as these are clear signs of a leak. If you don't find any obvious signs, pay special attention to the transmission bellhousing, as leaks can sometimes originate from there, particularly if the engine valley drain hole appears clean. Additionally, be aware of potential transmission fluid leaks, which can arise from seals or gaskets and may lead to significant damage if not addressed promptly. For a thorough understanding of the issue, consider consulting a comprehensive guide that details common leak locations, symptoms, and repair solutions. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively pinpoint and resolve oil leaks, ensuring your BMW remains in optimal condition.

How to Address Oil Leaks in a BMW 640i xDrive Gran Coupe?

When dealing with oil leaks in your BMW 640i xDrive Gran Coupe, it's essential to understand the common problems that can arise. The most frequent culprits include the valve cover, oil filter housing, and various seals such as the front and rear main seals. These components can wear out over time, leading to oil seepage that may manifest as stains on your driveway or a burning smell from the engine bay. If you notice low oil levels on the dipstick or the oil level warning light illuminating, these are clear indicators of a potential leak. For a DIY fix, consider adding an oil leak stopper to the oil fill hole, which can temporarily seal minor leaks. However, if the problem persists, it may be necessary to replace failing gaskets or seals to ensure a long-term solution. By being proactive and attentive to these common issues, you can effectively manage oil leaks and maintain the performance of your BMW.

How Urgent is an Oil Leak in a BMW 640i xDrive Gran Coupe?

An oil leak in your BMW 640i xDrive Gran Coupe is not just a minor inconvenience; it poses significant risks that require immediate attention. Ignoring the signs of an oil leak, such as oil stains on the ground or a burning smell from the engine, can lead to severe engine damage and costly repairs. The engine relies on oil for lubrication, and a leak can result in low oil levels, which may cause overheating and increased friction among engine components. Additionally, if the leak originates from the valve cover gasket, it can lead to smoke and further complications, affecting the overall performance of your vehicle. Moreover, transmission fluid leaks can also occur, which can compromise your vehicle's transmission system, leading to potential failure. Therefore, if you notice any symptoms of an oil leak, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to ensure your BMW remains safe and operates efficiently. Taking swift action not only protects your investment but also enhances your driving experience.

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