BMW 650i XDrive Gran Coupe Is Leaking Oil

Discover the Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Your BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe and How to Resolve Them

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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 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 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.

Troubleshooting Oil Leaks in a BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe

When troubleshooting oil leaks in your BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by visually inspecting the engine and surrounding areas for any signs of oil seepage or stains, which can indicate the source of the leak. Pay particular attention to common leak sources such as the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, and oil pan gasket, as these are frequent culprits. If you notice oil pooling or dripping, use a smoke tester to pinpoint the exact location of the leak, as this method can save you time and unnecessary repairs. Once you've identified the leak, assess whether it can be addressed with a simple fix, such as replacing a gasket or seal, or if it requires more extensive repairs. For minor leaks, utilizing tools like washers and a small socket set, along with Loctite 222, can provide a quick and effective solution. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently diagnose and resolve oil leaks, ensuring your BMW remains in optimal condition.

How to Diagnose and Fix Oil Leaks in a BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, it's essential to understand the common problems that can arise within its engine and related systems. One frequent issue is the failure of the valve cover gaskets, which can deteriorate over time, leading to oil seeping out and creating visible leaks. Similarly, the oil pan is another critical area where leaks can occur, particularly in xDrive models where the design complicates repairs due to the drive shaft's positioning. Turbo oil lines are also notorious for developing leaks, often requiring careful inspection and potential replacement to ensure proper sealing. Additionally, the timing cover gaskets can fail, contributing to oil loss and necessitating a thorough examination. Regular maintenance plays a vital role in preventing these issues; by adhering to a routine service schedule that includes oil changes and inspections, you can mitigate the risk of leaks and maintain the performance of your BMW 650i. Understanding these common failure modes will empower you to effectively diagnose and address oil leaks, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

Why is it Urgent to Address Oil Leaks in a BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe?

Addressing oil leaks in your BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical step in safeguarding your vehicle's performance and longevity. Oil leaks often stem from failing seals or gaskets, which, if left unattended, can lead to a significant loss of oil. This loss compromises the lubrication of essential engine components, potentially resulting in severe engine damage and diminished performance. Moreover, neglecting these leaks can create hazardous conditions, such as slippery surfaces on driveways, posing safety risks to you and others. The presence of a burning smell from the engine bay is another alarming sign that should not be ignored, as it may indicate overheating or other serious issues. By identifying and rectifying oil leaks early, you not only prevent costly repairs down the line but also ensure that your BMW operates smoothly and efficiently. Therefore, taking prompt action to address oil leaks is vital for maintaining the safety, performance, and overall health of your vehicle.

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