2010 BMW 750Li XDrive Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2010 BMW 750Li xDrive: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2010 BMW 750Li 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 2010 BMW 750Li 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 steps should I take to diagnose the check engine light on my 2010 BMW 750Li xDrive?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2010 BMW 750Li xDrive, start by retrieving the Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) using an OBD2 scanner tool. This initial step is crucial as it provides specific codes that indicate which sensors or components may be malfunctioning. Once you have the codes, take the time to understand their meanings, as they offer insights into your vehicle's engine performance and emission control systems. After identifying the codes, check for common issues associated with the check engine light, such as faulty spark plugs or problems within the emission system. It's also important to assess the severity of the warning; the color of the engine management light can help you determine whether the issue is urgent or can be addressed later. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can pinpoint the underlying problems and take the necessary steps to resolve them, ensuring your BMW runs smoothly and efficiently.

What common issues trigger the check engine light in a 2010 BMW 750Li xDrive?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2010 BMW 750Li xDrive, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most frequent culprits is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring exhaust oxygen levels to optimize fuel efficiency and emissions. Another simple yet often overlooked issue is a loose gas cap; ensuring that the cap is properly sealed can sometimes resolve the warning light. Additionally, air leaks in the intake system can lead to fault codes, making it essential to inspect hoses and connections for any signs of wear or damage. Various sensor malfunctions, particularly those related to the emissions system, can also trigger the check engine light, indicating the need for further investigation. With over 100 possible fault codes associated with this warning, utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a practical step for DIYers to accurately diagnose the specific issue. Addressing these common problems promptly not only helps in maintaining the vehicle's performance but also prevents more significant issues down the line.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2010 BMW 750Li xDrive?

Addressing the check engine light in a 2010 BMW 750Li xDrive is of utmost importance due to the potential risks associated with ignoring it. A flashing check engine light is a clear indication of a serious issue that could lead to significant engine damage if not addressed immediately; therefore, turning off the engine as soon as possible is crucial. Even a steady check engine light, while it may suggest a less severe problem, such as a loose gas cap, should not be overlooked, as it can still indicate underlying issues that could escalate if left unattended. By understanding the urgency of these symptoms, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to diagnose and resolve the problem, potentially saving themselves from costly repairs and ensuring the vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. If the issue persists or if you're unsure about the cause, seeking professional assistance for a thorough diagnostic is highly recommended to prevent further complications.

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