2016 BMW 650i XDrive Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 BMW 650i xDrive and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2016 BMW 650i xDrive 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 2016 BMW 650i xDrive 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.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2016 BMW 650i xDrive?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 BMW 650i xDrive, the first step is to check the gas cap, as a loose or missing cap can often trigger the warning light. If the cap is secure, the next step is to use an OBD2 scanner to retrieve any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), which will help identify the specific issue at hand. Once you have the codes, inspect the emissions system, as many check engine light issues are related to emissions control malfunctions. Pay particular attention to common culprits such as a faulty oxygen sensor, which can significantly impact your vehicle's performance if not addressed promptly. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issue, ensuring your BMW runs smoothly and efficiently.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 2016 BMW 650i xDrive?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2016 BMW 650i xDrive, it can be concerning, but understanding the common issues can help you troubleshoot effectively. One of the most frequent causes is a loose, damaged, or missing gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapor leaks and trigger the warning light. Additionally, electrical problems, such as faulty wiring or connectors, can disrupt the vehicle's systems and cause the check engine light to activate. Another common issue is a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring exhaust emissions and fuel efficiency; if it fails, it can lead to poor engine performance and increased emissions. Furthermore, problems within the fuel system, including issues with the fuel pump or injectors, can also be responsible for the check engine light coming on, particularly in models equipped with the N63 engine. Addressing these issues promptly not only helps in maintaining your vehicle's performance but also prevents further complications down the line. If you're comfortable with DIY repairs, start by checking the gas cap and inspecting the electrical connections before moving on to more complex components like the oxygen sensors or fuel system.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 BMW 650i xDrive?

When the check engine light appears on your 2016 BMW 650i xDrive, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not just a minor inconvenience; it signifies that your engine requires immediate attention. Ignoring this alert can lead to severe consequences, including costly repairs and potential safety hazards while driving. A flashing check engine light, in particular, indicates a critical issue that demands swift action to prevent significant engine damage. For those inclined to take a DIY approach, it is advisable to first conduct a thorough diagnostic check using an OBD-II scanner to identify the specific trouble codes. However, be prepared to consult a professional BMW mechanic if the problem is beyond your expertise. Addressing the check engine light promptly not only safeguards your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety on the road, making it a priority for any responsible car owner.

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2016 BMW 650i xDrive Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions