2015 BMW 650i Gran Coupe Is Leaking Oil

Diagnosing Oil Leak Sources in Your 2015 BMW 650i 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 2015 BMW 650i 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 2015 BMW 650i 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 steps should I take to diagnose the oil leak in my 2015 BMW 650i Gran Coupe?

To diagnose an oil leak in your 2015 BMW 650i Gran Coupe, start with a thorough visual inspection of both the engine bay and the area beneath the vehicle. Look for any signs of oil accumulation, such as puddles or drips, which can indicate the presence of a leak. Next, regularly check your oil levels; a significant drop can signal a leak that requires immediate attention. If the source of the leak remains elusive, consider using a smoke tester, which can help you pinpoint the exact location of the leak by introducing smoke into the system. Additionally, pay attention to any unusual sounds, such as sizzling or popping, which may suggest that oil is leaking onto hot engine components. Focus your inspection on common leak-prone areas, including the valve cover gasket, turbocharger oil lines, and the oil filter. If you find yourself uncertain at any point, consulting a trusted BMW specialist can provide you with the expertise needed to accurately diagnose and resolve the issue. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address oil leaks in your BMW, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2015 BMW 650i Gran Coupe?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2015 BMW 650i Gran Coupe, it's essential to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One of the primary issues is a worn valve cover gasket, which is notorious for allowing oil to seep out, particularly as the vehicle ages. Additionally, the deterioration of engine gaskets and seals can lead to leaks, as these components are subject to wear and tear over time. As the mileage increases, seals and gaskets may fail, resulting in oil escaping from various points in the engine. It's crucial to inspect common leak points, such as the valve cover gasket, which encases the cylinder head, as these areas are often where oil leaks manifest. By identifying these issues early, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to address the leaks, potentially saving on costly repairs and ensuring the engine remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is the oil leak in my 2015 BMW 650i Gran Coupe?

When dealing with an oil leak in your 2015 BMW 650i Gran Coupe, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for both your vehicle's health and your safety. Oil is vital for lubricating engine components, and a significant leak can lead to rapid oil loss, resulting in dangerously low oil levels that may cause severe engine damage or even complete failure. If you notice a major leak where oil is draining quickly—such as losing its entire capacity within minutes—this is a clear indicator that immediate action is required. Common leak sources in BMWs include the oil drain plug, oil filter gasket, and various engine gaskets, so it's essential to identify the leak's origin. Regularly checking your oil levels and monitoring for any signs of leakage can help you catch issues early. If you find yourself facing a substantial leak, consulting a qualified technician or a BMW dealership is advisable to ensure proper diagnosis and repair. By addressing oil leaks promptly, you not only safeguard your engine's longevity but also enhance your vehicle's overall performance and safety.

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