2013 BMW 750Li XDrive Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2013 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 2013 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 2013 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 are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2013 BMW 750Li xDrive?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2013 BMW 750Li xDrive, the first step is to check the gas cap, as a loose cap can often trigger the warning light. If the cap is secure, the next step involves using an OBD2 scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), which will pinpoint the specific issue at hand. Once you have the codes, you can begin troubleshooting by investigating potential causes such as vacuum leaks or faulty spark plugs. This methodical approach allows you to address simpler problems first, potentially saving time and money. If the light persists despite these efforts, it may be necessary to consult a qualified mechanic for a more thorough diagnosis, ensuring that your vehicle receives the attention it needs to operate smoothly. By following these initial diagnostic steps, you can effectively manage the check engine light issue and maintain the performance of your BMW.

What causes the check engine light in a 2013 BMW 750Li xDrive?

The check engine light in your 2013 BMW 750Li xDrive can illuminate for a variety of reasons, often indicating underlying issues that require attention. One of the most frequent culprits is a problem with the emissions system, which can affect the vehicle's performance and environmental compliance. Additionally, sensor malfunctions, particularly with the oxygen sensor, can lead to incorrect readings and trigger the light. A faulty catalytic converter is another serious concern, as it can impact engine efficiency and emissions. Sometimes, a simple issue like a loose or damaged gas cap can cause the light to come on, so it's worth checking that first. Other potential causes include vacuum leaks, faulty spark plugs, and decreased fuel efficiency, all of which can affect the vehicle's overall operation. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to avoid more significant problems down the line, and while some DIY enthusiasts may feel comfortable troubleshooting these issues, consulting a professional for a thorough diagnosis is always a wise choice if you're uncertain.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2013 BMW 750Li xDrive?

When the check engine light appears on your 2013 BMW 750Li xDrive, it is crucial to take immediate action. This warning light is not just a minor inconvenience; it indicates that your vehicle's onboard diagnostics have detected a problem that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to more severe issues, such as engine damage or compromised safety features, which may result in costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions. By promptly diagnosing and resolving the underlying issue, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also enhance your safety on the road. Therefore, if you see that light illuminate, consider it a priority to investigate the cause, whether through a professional inspection or by using an OBD-II scanner for a DIY approach. Taking these steps can prevent further damage and ensure your BMW remains reliable and safe for your journeys.

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