2009 BMW 750Li Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2009 BMW 750Li 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 2009 BMW 750Li 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 2009 BMW 750Li 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 and diagnostic steps for an oil leak in a 2009 BMW 750Li?

When tackling an oil leak in a 2009 BMW 750Li, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by identifying the source of the leak, which often involves inspecting common areas such as the valve cover and gaskets. Look for visible signs of oil, such as drips or residue, which can indicate where the leak is originating. Once you have a general idea of the location, perform a basic diagnosis by checking for oil accumulation around critical components, including turbocharger oil lines. If the source remains elusive or if the leak persists despite your efforts, it may be time to consult a certified auto repair technician who specializes in BMW vehicles. This methodical approach not only helps in pinpointing the issue but also ensures that you address simpler fixes before delving into more complex diagnostics, ultimately aiding in the effective resolution of the oil leak and maintaining your vehicle's performance.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2009 BMW 750Li?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2009 BMW 750Li, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One of the primary offenders is the valve cover gasket, which can wear out over time, allowing oil to seep through the seams. Additionally, oil system component failures, such as a leaking oil filter housing gasket or a faulty oil level switch O-ring, can also lead to significant leaks. Engine gaskets, particularly those in the lower engine protective cover, are another area to inspect, as they can deteriorate and fail, resulting in oil escaping from various points. A malfunctioning oil level sensor may further complicate the situation by contributing to leaks. Lastly, don't overlook the possibility of cracks in components like the alternator bracket support gasket or the upper timing case cover, as these can also be sources of oil leakage. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent engine damage and maintain the vehicle's performance, making regular inspections and maintenance a vital part of vehicle care for any DIY enthusiast.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2009 BMW 750Li?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2009 BMW 750Li is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. Ignoring this issue can lead to severe engine performance problems, including overheating and the risk of complete engine failure. As oil levels drop due to leaks, the engine may suffer from inadequate lubrication, which can escalate into costly repairs or even necessitate a full engine replacement. The severity of the leak dictates the type of repair needed, ranging from simple gasket replacements to more intricate fixes involving engine components. Delaying these repairs not only increases the risk of further damage but also compounds repair costs over time. Therefore, it is essential to act swiftly to mitigate any potential harm to your vehicle, ensuring its performance and longevity are maintained.

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