2016 BMW 750i Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2016 BMW 750i and How to Address Them Effectively

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2016 BMW 750i is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in 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 2016 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 steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2016 BMW 750i?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2016 BMW 750i, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the engine and undercarriage. Look for any obvious signs of oil, such as puddles or stains, which can help you identify the general area of the leak. Next, check the oil levels to determine if there has been a significant drop, indicating a potential leak. Pay close attention to the oil filter and drain plug, as these components are common culprits for leaks; ensure they are secure and free from oil residue. Additionally, inspect the gaskets and seals around the engine, as wear and tear can lead to leaks. If the source remains elusive, consider performing a pressure test on the oil system to detect leaks under pressure. For a more precise diagnosis, adding UV dye to the oil can help you pinpoint the leak's location when illuminated with a UV light. If these steps do not yield results, consulting a professional mechanic with expertise in BMW vehicles is advisable for a comprehensive evaluation and repair.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2016 BMW 750i?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2016 BMW 750i, it's crucial to understand the common causes that may be affecting your vehicle. One of the primary issues is the degradation of gaskets and seals, which can occur over time due to wear and tear. This includes the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and camshaft seals, all of which play vital roles in maintaining a leak-free engine. Another frequent source of oil leaks is the oil filter housing gasket; if this component fails, it can lead to noticeable oil seepage. Additionally, the valve cover gasket is essential for sealing the valve cover to the cylinder head, and any damage or wear here can result in leaks. The oil pan gasket, which seals the oil pan to the engine block, is also susceptible to leaks, often manifesting as oil dripping from the bottom of the engine. Lastly, the timing cover gasket is important for sealing the timing cover to the engine block, and its failure can lead to oil leaks at the front of the engine. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to prevent further damage and maintain the performance of your BMW. Regular inspections and maintenance can help you catch these problems early, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2016 BMW 750i?

When dealing with an oil leak in your 2016 BMW 750i, understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial for both your vehicle's health and your safety. A minor leak may seem manageable, but even small issues can escalate quickly, leading to significant engine damage if left unchecked. The lubrication system is vital for maintaining engine performance, and a loss of oil can result in excessive wear on critical components, ultimately leading to costly repairs. Moreover, oil leaks can create hazardous conditions; oil dripping onto hot engine parts can ignite, posing a serious fire risk. Additionally, the environmental implications of oil leaks cannot be overlooked, as they can contaminate local ecosystems. Therefore, it is advisable to assess the severity of the leak and take immediate action to address it, ensuring the longevity of your vehicle and the safety of its occupants. Promptly fixing an oil leak not only protects your investment but also contributes to a safer driving experience and a healthier environment.

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