2014 BMW 640i Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2014 BMW 640i and How to Address Them Effectively

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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 2014 BMW 640i 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 2014 BMW 640i 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 the oil leak in a 2014 BMW 640i?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2014 BMW 640i, start by identifying the source of the leak, as this is crucial for determining the appropriate repair. Common culprits include the valve cover gasket, timing cover gasket, and oil filter housing, so visually inspecting these areas can provide immediate insights. Regularly checking your oil levels is also essential; a sudden drop can signal a leak that needs attention. If you're uncertain about the source or feel overwhelmed, consulting a certified auto repair technician with experience in BMWs can be invaluable. They can pinpoint the issue more accurately, especially if it involves worn gaskets or seals, which are frequent causes of oil leaks. Additionally, consider reaching out to independent BMW specialists who often offer cost-effective solutions and possess the expertise necessary for diagnosing and repairing oil leaks. By following this diagnostic approach, you can ensure your vehicle remains in optimal condition while addressing any oil leak concerns efficiently.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2014 BMW 640i?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2014 BMW 640i, it's essential to understand the common culprits that may be causing the problem. One of the primary sources of oil leaks is the valve cover gasket, which can become brittle over time, leading to oil seepage and potentially creating a burning smell or visible oil on the engine. Another frequent issue arises from the oil filter housing gasket, which can deteriorate and result in oil leaking out, often accompanied by a burning oil odor or oil stains beneath the vehicle. Additionally, the oil pan gasket is a critical area to inspect, as leaks here can lead to dangerously low oil levels, risking engine damage if not addressed promptly. To effectively tackle these issues, regular inspections and maintenance are vital. By identifying the specific source of the leak, DIY enthusiasts can take the necessary steps to repair or replace the faulty components, ensuring the engine remains healthy and operational.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2014 BMW 640i?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2014 BMW 640i is not just a matter of convenience; it is a critical maintenance task that demands immediate attention. Ignoring an oil leak can lead to severe engine stress, resulting in diminished performance and potentially catastrophic damage. The engine, being the most expensive component of your vehicle, requires proper lubrication to function optimally. A persistent leak compromises this lubrication, increasing the risk of overheating and mechanical failure. Moreover, the longer you wait to fix the leak, the more extensive the damage can become, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided. Therefore, it is essential to act swiftly and address any signs of an oil leak to ensure the longevity and reliability of your BMW 640i.

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Urgent Oil Leak in 2014 BMW 640i Causes & Risks