2016 BMW 750i XDrive Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2016 BMW 750i xDrive: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
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 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 2016 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 2016 BMW 750i xDrive?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 BMW 750i xDrive, the first step is to visually inspect the vehicle for any obvious issues, such as ensuring that the gas cap is securely tightened and in good condition, as a loose cap can often trigger the warning. Next, utilizing an OBD-II diagnostic scanner is crucial; this tool will help you retrieve the specific error code associated with the check engine light, providing insight into the potential problem. Common culprits for the light include the oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, spark plugs, and mass airflow sensor, so it’s wise to check these components for any signs of wear or malfunction. Additionally, consulting your owner’s manual can offer guidance on interpreting the error codes and suggest appropriate actions based on the findings. If these initial steps do not resolve the issue or if the problem appears to be more complex, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or a BMW dealership is recommended to ensure proper diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 BMW 750i xDrive?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2016 BMW 750i xDrive, it can be a source of concern for any driver. Several common issues may be at play, and understanding them can help you diagnose the problem before seeking professional help. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency and increase emissions. Another simple issue could be a loose or damaged gas cap, which can lead to fuel vapor leaks and trigger the light. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can also illuminate the check engine light and may affect emissions testing. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues. Furthermore, spark plug or ignition coil problems can cause engine misfires, resulting in the light turning on. Lastly, an engine misfire itself, stemming from various factors like fuel delivery issues, can also be a reason for concern. While these issues can often be diagnosed at home, it is advisable to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough evaluation to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 BMW 750i xDrive?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2016 BMW 750i xDrive, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning indicator is not merely a nuisance; it signifies that there may be a critical issue with your vehicle's engine or emissions system. Ignoring this alert can lead to escalating problems, including severe engine damage and costly repairs. Moreover, driving with the check engine light on can adversely affect your car's performance and fuel efficiency, potentially compromising your safety on the road. Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems that can quickly identify the root cause of the issue, making it imperative to have a diagnostic scan performed as soon as possible. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's health but also ensure a safer driving experience. Therefore, it is highly advisable to consult a qualified mechanic without delay to diagnose and resolve any underlying issues.

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