2018 BMW 650i XDrive Gran Coupe Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe and How to Address Them

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2018 BMW 650i 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 2018 BMW 650i 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.

What are the steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, start by locating the leak. Begin by inspecting the area where you typically park your vehicle for any oil spots or puddles, particularly beneath the engine. Next, check the oil level using the dipstick; a significant drop may indicate a leak. Carefully examine the engine components, focusing on areas like the valve cover gasket, oil pan, and oil filter housing for visible signs of oil. Don’t forget to inspect the oil filter itself for any leaks or damage, as well as the oil drain plug to ensure it is securely tightened. If these initial checks do not reveal the source of the leak, consider performing a pressure test to help pinpoint the issue. Should you still be unable to identify the leak, it may be wise to consult a qualified mechanic or a BMW service center for a more thorough diagnosis and repair. This systematic approach not only helps in identifying the problem but also ensures that you address simpler issues before moving on to more complex diagnostics.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One of the primary issues is the degradation of gaskets and seals, which can occur over time due to exposure to heat and engine vibrations. This wear can lead to oil seeping out of the engine. Additionally, the oil pan is susceptible to damage from road debris or corrosion, which can create openings for oil to escape. Another frequent source of leaks is the valve cover gasket, which may become brittle or worn, especially in older vehicles. The oil filter housing gasket is also a potential problem area, as it can deteriorate and allow oil to leak. Lastly, the oil cooler can develop leaks, resulting in noticeable oil drips. For DIY enthusiasts, regularly inspecting these components can help catch leaks early, ensuring the vehicle remains in optimal condition and preventing more significant engine damage down the line.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe?

When dealing with an oil leak in your 2018 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. An oil leak not only compromises the lubrication necessary for your engine's smooth operation but also increases the risk of overheating, which can lead to severe engine damage. Ignoring this issue can escalate into more significant problems, including engine failure, which often results in costly repairs that could have been avoided with prompt action. Additionally, maintaining the correct oil levels is essential for your vehicle's performance; a leak can hinder this, affecting your car's efficiency and responsiveness. Beyond mechanical concerns, safety is paramount; leaking oil can create fire hazards if it comes into contact with hot engine parts. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of an oil leak immediately, ensuring both the longevity of your vehicle and your safety on the road. Consulting a qualified mechanic at the first sign of trouble is the best course of action to mitigate these risks effectively.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.