2011 BMW 750i XDrive Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2011 BMW 750i xDrive and How to Address Them Effectively

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2011 BMW 750i xDrive is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A failure in oil system components, such as a worn oil pump or clogged oil filter, can lead to 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 2011 BMW 750i xDrive 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.

What steps should I take to diagnose the oil leak in my 2011 BMW 750i xDrive?

When diagnosing an oil leak in your 2011 BMW 750i xDrive, it's crucial to take a methodical approach that prioritizes simple checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Begin by examining the ground beneath your vehicle for any visible oil spots or drips, as this can quickly indicate the leak's location. Regularly monitor your oil levels; a noticeable drop may suggest a leak that warrants further investigation. Look for oil stains on your driveway or garage floor, which can help trace the leak's origin. If you notice a burning smell emanating from the engine bay, this could signal an oil leak that requires immediate attention. Inspect the engine components for any signs of oil seepage, particularly around common leak-prone areas like the valve cover gaskets and oil filter housing gaskets. Additionally, if the oil warning light on your dashboard illuminates, it serves as a clear warning of low oil levels, likely due to a leak. Finally, if you find no oil residue at the engine valley drain hole, consider that the leak may be more intricate, potentially stemming from inside the transmission bellhousing. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively pinpoint the source of the oil leak and take appropriate action to address the issue, ultimately safeguarding the performance and longevity of your BMW.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2011 BMW 750i xDrive?

When addressing oil leaks in a 2011 BMW 750i xDrive, it's essential to recognize the various common problems that can lead to these issues. One significant factor is the failure of oil system components, such as a faulty oil level sensor, which can result in incorrect readings and potential leaks. Engine gaskets, particularly the valve cover gasket, are also susceptible to wear and can develop leaks as the vehicle ages. Additionally, the deterioration of seals and gaskets over time can lead to oil seepage, especially in high-mileage vehicles. The oil filter housing gasket is another common source of leaks, and its failure can contribute to oil loss. Furthermore, failed seals and gaskets may allow oil to drip into lower engine areas or burn off during operation, creating further complications. Lastly, coolant leaks from brittle plastic pipes can worsen the situation, impacting the vehicle's overall performance. Timely identification and repair of these issues are crucial to maintaining the integrity and longevity of your BMW.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2011 BMW 750i xDrive?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2011 BMW 750i xDrive is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. Oil is vital for lubricating engine components, and a leak can lead to a significant loss of oil, jeopardizing the engine's smooth operation. If left unaddressed, low oil levels can result in severe engine damage, leading to costly repairs that could have been easily avoided. Moreover, oil leaks pose serious safety hazards, including the risk of fire from burning oil or excessive consumption. Delaying repairs can exacerbate the problem, causing further damage to engine components and diminishing your vehicle's overall performance. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize the repair of any oil leaks to ensure the safety and longevity of your BMW 750i xDrive.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

Urgent Oil Leak Repair for 2011 BMW 750i xDrive