BMW 640i XDrive Is Leaking Oil

Discover the Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Your BMW 640i xDrive and How to Address Them Effectively

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 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 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?

When diagnosing and fixing oil leaks in your BMW 640i xDrive, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with identifying the most common leak sources. Start by inspecting areas such as the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and oil pan gasket, as these are frequent culprits. Pay attention to symptoms like oil stains on your driveway, a burning smell from the engine, or visible oil seepage around the engine components. If you notice low oil levels on the dipstick or the oil level warning light illuminated, these are clear indicators of a leak that needs addressing. Additionally, check the engine valley drain hole; if it appears clean, the leak may be originating from within the transmission bellhousing, possibly due to a leaking engine oil galley. By methodically assessing these areas, you can pinpoint the source of the leak and determine the necessary repairs. Remember, regular maintenance and prompt attention to leaks can help prevent future issues, ensuring your BMW remains in optimal condition.

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

When diagnosing and fixing oil leaks in a BMW 640i xDrive, it's essential to understand the common problems that can arise. One of the most frequent sources of oil leaks is the valve cover gasket, which can deteriorate over time, leading to oil seeping out and potentially causing engine damage. Another common culprit is the oil filter housing gasket, which can fail due to heat and pressure, resulting in noticeable oil stains beneath the vehicle. Additionally, the oil pan gasket is prone to wear, especially in older models, and can lead to significant leaks if not addressed promptly. Symptoms such as a burning oil smell, visible oil puddles, or a drop in oil levels are clear indicators that a leak may be present. If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to investigate further, as ignoring them can lead to more severe engine issues. For those who are unsure about the source of the leak, seeking professional diagnosis is advisable, as they can provide a thorough inspection and pinpoint the exact problem. By being aware of these common issues and their symptoms, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to maintain their BMW 640i xDrive and ensure its longevity.

Why is it Critical to Address Oil Leaks in a BMW 640i xDrive?

Addressing oil leaks in your BMW 640i xDrive is not just a matter of maintenance; it is essential for the safety and longevity of your vehicle. Ignoring even minor oil leaks can lead to severe engine damage, as low oil levels can cause critical components to overheat and fail. The most common sources of oil leaks, such as the valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket, can deteriorate over time, leading to more significant issues if left unchecked. A burning oil smell or visible oil stains under your car are clear indicators that immediate action is required. By promptly addressing these leaks, you not only protect your engine from potential harm but also maintain the overall performance and reliability of your BMW. Taking the time to repair these leaks can save you from costly repairs down the line and ensure that your vehicle remains in optimal condition for years to come.

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