2012 BMW 750i XDrive Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2012 BMW 750i xDrive: Common Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2012 BMW 750i 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 2012 BMW 750i 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 2012 BMW 750i xDrive?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2012 BMW 750i xDrive, the first step is to retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using a scan tool or code reader. This tool connects to the vehicle's diagnostic port and provides crucial information about which sensor or component may be malfunctioning. After obtaining the codes, it’s essential to check for common issues that could trigger the light, such as problems with the oxygen sensor, gas cap, or catalytic converter. A simple yet often overlooked step is to inspect the gas cap; ensuring it is securely tightened can resolve the issue if it was the cause. Once you have the diagnostic codes, take the time to look them up online or consult your vehicle's manual to gain a better understanding of the specific problems indicated. By following these initial diagnostic steps, you can effectively identify the underlying cause of the check engine light and take the necessary actions to address it, making your DIY repair process smoother and more efficient.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 2012 BMW 750i xDrive?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2012 BMW 750i xDrive, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common issues that may trigger this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring the exhaust system's oxygen levels and ensuring optimal fuel efficiency. If this sensor fails, you may notice a drop in gas mileage and an increase in emissions. Another simple yet often overlooked issue is a loose, damaged, or missing gas cap; this can easily trigger the check engine light and is a quick fix that should be checked first. Additionally, the light may indicate a range of engine problems, from minor sensor failures to more serious issues that could lead to engine failure if left unaddressed. With over 100 possible fault codes associated with the check engine light, it’s essential to diagnose the specific cause accurately. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner can help you read the fault codes and guide you in troubleshooting the problem effectively, allowing you to tackle these common issues with confidence.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2012 BMW 750i xDrive?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2012 BMW 750i xDrive, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light serves as a critical indicator of potential engine issues that, if left unaddressed, can escalate into severe problems, leading to costly repairs and even compromising your vehicle's safety. A flashing check engine light is particularly alarming, signaling a serious malfunction that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning not only risks further damage to your engine but can also affect your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. For DIY enthusiasts, it is crucial to act swiftly by diagnosing the issue, whether through an OBD-II scanner or by consulting reliable resources, to prevent minor issues from becoming major headaches. Addressing the check engine light promptly ensures the longevity of your BMW and keeps you safe on the road.

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.

Check Engine Light Causes for 2012 BMW 750i xDrive