BMW 650i XDrive Gran Coupe Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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 650i xDrive Gran Coupe has a check engine light?

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.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe

When faced with a Check Engine Light in your BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, the first step is to locate the OBD plug, typically found under the dashboard near the driver's seat. Connecting an OBD scanner to this port allows you to read the trouble codes that can pinpoint the issue. Start by diagnosing common causes, such as a loose gas cap or problems within the emissions control system, as these are often the simplest and quickest fixes. If the light persists, utilize the scanner tool to delve deeper into the specific codes, which will guide you toward the underlying problem. Once you have addressed the issue, you can reset the Check Engine Light by disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery, a straightforward process that can clear the warning after repairs. However, if the light remains illuminated or if you encounter complex issues, seeking professional assistance from a BMW service center is advisable to ensure that your vehicle receives the specialized care it requires. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively manage the Check Engine Light and maintain the performance of your BMW.

What Could Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe?

When the check engine light comes on in your BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems can help you troubleshoot effectively. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring the exhaust gases and ensuring optimal fuel efficiency. Another common issue is a loose or damaged gas cap, which can lead to fuel evaporation and trigger the warning light. Additionally, problems with the mass airflow sensor can affect engine performance, while a malfunctioning catalytic converter may indicate more serious emissions issues. It's also worth considering that the check engine light can serve as a maintenance alert, signaling the need for routine service. By familiarizing yourself with these potential causes, you can take the first steps toward diagnosing the issue, whether that means tightening the gas cap or seeking professional help for more complex problems. Always remember that addressing the underlying cause promptly is essential to maintaining your vehicle's performance and longevity.

Why is the Check Engine Light Important in a BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe?

The Check Engine Light in your BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe is not just a simple warning; it serves as a critical alert system for your vehicle's health. Ignoring this light can lead to severe consequences, including costly repairs and safety hazards. For instance, a flashing Check Engine Light often signifies a serious engine problem that could result in catastrophic engine failure if not addressed immediately. Additionally, many issues indicated by the light, such as malfunctions in the emissions system, can lead to increased pollution and may even result in your vehicle failing emissions tests. By promptly investigating the cause of the Check Engine Light, you not only protect your investment but also ensure your safety on the road. Therefore, it is essential to treat this warning with the urgency it deserves, as timely action can prevent minor issues from escalating into major, expensive repairs.

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