2018 BMW 750i XDrive Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 BMW 750i xDrive?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 2018 BMW 750i xDrive, it's essential to approach the situation methodically to identify the underlying issue. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to review your dashboard for any additional alerts or warning lights, as these can offer further insights into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step in this process, as it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer, which can significantly narrow down the potential causes. Additionally, inspect the condition of your spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can lead to engine performance issues. Don't forget to check the levels of essential fluids like oil and coolant, ensuring they are within the recommended range. Lastly, a visual inspection of the wiring and connections under the hood can reveal any damage or loose connections that may be affecting your engine's performance. By following these initial diagnostic steps, you can gather valuable information that will help you address the check engine light effectively.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2018 BMW 750i xDrive?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2018 BMW 750i xDrive, it can be a source of concern for any driver. Understanding the common problems that may cause this warning light to illuminate is crucial for effective troubleshooting. One of the simplest issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light. More complex issues may involve the oxygen sensor, which, if faulty, can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and performance. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also cause the check engine light to activate, indicating a failure or inefficiency in the exhaust system. Another potential culprit is the mass airflow sensor, which plays a vital role in regulating the air-fuel mixture; if it malfunctions, it can disrupt engine performance. Worn-out spark plugs and malfunctioning ignition coils are also common issues that can lead to misfires, prompting the check engine light to turn on. Lastly, a vacuum leak can significantly affect the air-fuel ratio, resulting in the same warning. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, making it advisable for DIY enthusiasts to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and repair.

What should I do if the check engine light comes on in my 2018 BMW 750i xDrive?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2018 BMW 750i xDrive, it is crucial to act swiftly to avoid serious consequences. Ignoring this warning can lead to significant engine damage or safety hazards, particularly if the light is flashing, which signals a more urgent issue. Start by checking for immediate problems, such as ensuring your gas cap is secure, as a loose cap can often trigger the light. Pay attention to other dashboard indicators; signs of overheating or low oil pressure require immediate action. If the light persists, scheduling a diagnostic test with a certified mechanic is essential to pinpoint the underlying issue. Addressing the identified problem promptly not only safeguards your vehicle's performance but also enhances your safety on the road. Regular maintenance is key to preventing future occurrences, ensuring your BMW remains in optimal condition and reducing the likelihood of unexpected check engine alerts.

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