2010 BMW 750i Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2010 BMW 750i and How to Address Them Effectively

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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 2010 BMW 750i 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 2010 BMW 750i 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 are the potential causes of an oil leak in a 2010 BMW 750i, and how should I diagnose it?

When diagnosing an oil leak in a 2010 BMW 750i, it's essential to start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin with a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay and the area beneath the vehicle, looking for any signs of oil pooling or dripping. Pay close attention to common leak points such as the valve cover gasket and timing cover gaskets, as these are frequent culprits in older BMW models. If visible leaks are not apparent, consider using UV dye in the engine oil, which can illuminate the source of the leak under UV light, making it easier to pinpoint the issue. Additionally, performing a pressure test on the oil system can help identify leaks by pressurizing the system and observing any escaping oil. If these methods do not yield results or if the problem appears to be more complex, it may be wise to consult a professional mechanic or a BMW specialist for a comprehensive diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address oil leak issues in your BMW 750i, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2010 BMW 750i?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2010 BMW 750i, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One of the primary issues is a worn valve cover gasket, which is notorious for causing leaks in many BMW models. Over time, this gasket can degrade, leading to oil seeping out and potentially causing engine damage if not addressed. Another frequent source of leaks is the oil filter housing gasket; if this component fails, it can result in significant oil loss. Additionally, as your BMW ages, the deterioration of various engine gaskets and seals can contribute to leaks, making regular inspections essential. Lastly, while oil pans are generally durable, they can suffer from external damage due to accidents or improper maintenance, necessitating replacement. By being aware of these common issues, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to inspect and repair their vehicles, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

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