BMW 735i Engine Is Stalling

Troubleshooting Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your BMW 735i and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a BMW 735i engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
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 735i engine is stalling?

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.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

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.

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 Engine Stalling in a BMW 735i

When troubleshooting engine stalling in your BMW 735i, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by checking the simplest components first, such as ensuring that your fuel tank has sufficient fuel and that the fuel pump is functioning correctly. Next, inspect the air intake system for any blockages or leaks that could disrupt airflow. Pay close attention to the ignition system, particularly the spark plugs and ignition coils, as these are common culprits in stalling issues. If the check engine light is illuminated, use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve any diagnostic trouble codes that can guide your troubleshooting efforts. As you progress, consider performing routine maintenance tasks, such as replacing spark plugs and checking for vacuum leaks, which can prevent stalling from occurring in the first place. By following this structured approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the underlying causes of engine stalling, ensuring your BMW 735i runs smoothly.

What Are the Common Causes of Engine Stalling in a BMW 735i?

When dealing with engine stalling in a BMW 735i, it's essential to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits is fuel delivery issues, which can prevent the engine from receiving the necessary fuel for proper combustion, leading to stalling. Additionally, the idle control valve often plays a significant role; if it malfunctions, it can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, particularly when coming to a stop. Another factor to consider is vacuum leaks, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and result in stalling. It's also crucial to check for coolant leaks, as these can lead to overheating and severe engine damage if not addressed promptly. Lastly, a defective fuel pump relay can intermittently cut off fuel supply, causing the engine to stall regardless of the load. By being aware of these common issues and conducting regular maintenance, DIY enthusiasts can effectively troubleshoot and resolve stalling problems in their BMW 735i.

Why is the Engine Stalling in a BMW 735i?

When your BMW 735i experiences engine stalling, it’s essential to act quickly, as ignoring this issue can lead to severe safety risks and costly repairs. Stalling can stem from various problems, including fuel system malfunctions, air intake issues, or ignition system failures. For instance, a failing ignition coil may not only trigger the check engine light but can also degrade engine performance and fuel efficiency, making it crucial to diagnose and resolve the problem promptly. Additionally, if the engine shuts off while driving, it could indicate serious mechanical failures, such as timing chain tension issues, which require immediate attention to prevent further damage. By addressing these symptoms as soon as they arise, you can safeguard your vehicle's performance and ensure your safety on the road. Remember, timely intervention is key to avoiding more extensive repairs and maintaining the reliability of your BMW 735i.

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