2019 BMW 740i XDrive Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2019 BMW 740i xDrive: Common Causes and Solutions

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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 2019 BMW 740i 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 2019 BMW 740i 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 2019 BMW 740i xDrive?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2019 BMW 740i xDrive, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can trigger the light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might offer further insight into the issue. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer, providing specific information about the problem. Additionally, inspect the condition of the spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can significantly impact engine performance. It's also wise to check the levels of essential fluids, including oil and coolant, ensuring they are within the recommended range. Finally, take a moment to inspect the wiring and connections under the hood for any signs of damage or looseness. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed action towards resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 BMW 740i xDrive?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2019 BMW 740i xDrive, it serves as a crucial alert for drivers, especially those inclined towards DIY repairs. Understanding the common problems that can trigger this warning light is essential for effective troubleshooting. A loose gas cap is often the simplest issue to address, as it can easily disrupt the fuel system's pressure. However, if the problem persists, it may indicate more complex issues such as a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only diminishes fuel efficiency but also increases harmful emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can lead to significant performance degradation. Other potential culprits include a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, which can upset the delicate air-fuel mixture, and worn-out spark plugs or ignition coils that may cause engine misfires and rough idling. Lastly, engine vacuum leaks can introduce a variety of performance issues, including erratic idling. By being aware of these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to diagnose and resolve the check engine light issue in their BMW, ensuring optimal vehicle performance.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 BMW 740i xDrive?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2019 BMW 740i xDrive, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning signal is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that your vehicle's engine or emissions system may be experiencing a malfunction that could escalate into more severe problems if left unaddressed. Ignoring this light can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and performance issues, potentially resulting in costly repairs down the line. For those inclined to take a DIY approach, the first step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific issue at hand. However, while this initial diagnosis can be helpful, it is crucial to understand that modern vehicles are equipped with complex systems that may require professional expertise for accurate troubleshooting and repair. Therefore, while you can start the process yourself, seeking the assistance of a qualified mechanic is advisable to ensure that any underlying problems are resolved effectively, safeguarding both your vehicle's performance and your safety on the road.

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