2010 BMW 750Li Has A Check Engine Light

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

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 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 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 2010 BMW 750Li?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2010 BMW 750Li, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by assessing the severity of the situation; if the light is flashing, this signals a critical issue that necessitates immediate engine shutdown to avoid further damage. For a steady light, the first step is often as simple as checking the gas cap—ensuring it is tightly secured can sometimes resolve the warning. Next, utilize an OBD2 scanner to retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), which will provide insight into the specific sensor or component at fault. With the DTCs in hand, you can troubleshoot the vehicle, examining potential causes such as vacuum leaks or faulty spark plugs. Finally, address the identified root cause with the appropriate repairs or replacements, allowing you to clear the check engine light and restore your BMW's performance. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the issues indicated by the check engine light.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2010 BMW 750Li, it can signal a variety of common issues that are crucial for DIY enthusiasts to understand. One of the primary culprits is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a vital role in monitoring exhaust oxygen levels to optimize fuel efficiency and emissions. If this sensor fails, it can lead to poor engine performance and increased emissions, making it essential to diagnose and replace it promptly. Another frequent issue is a defective thermostat; if it becomes stuck closed, it can cause the engine to overheat, triggering the check engine light. Additionally, a loose or damaged gas cap is often overlooked but can easily set off the warning light, highlighting the importance of checking this simple component first. Ignition coil problems are also common, particularly in BMW models, and can lead to misfires and reduced engine performance. By using an OBD-II scanner, DIYers can quickly identify these issues, allowing for timely repairs and preventing further complications. Understanding these common problems not only aids in effective troubleshooting but also empowers owners to take proactive steps in maintaining their vehicle's health.

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

When the check engine light appears on your 2010 BMW 750Li, it serves as a critical alert that should not be ignored. This warning indicates that the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected an issue that could compromise the car's performance and safety. Ignoring the light may lead to more severe mechanical problems, which can escalate into costly repairs and even pose safety risks while driving. For instance, a minor issue, such as a faulty sensor, could evolve into a more significant engine malfunction if left unaddressed. Moreover, the check engine light can signify problems that affect fuel efficiency, emissions, and overall vehicle reliability. Therefore, it is essential to diagnose and resolve the underlying issue as soon as possible to ensure the longevity of your BMW and maintain safe driving conditions. Taking prompt action not only protects your investment but also enhances your peace of mind on the road.

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2010 BMW 750Li Check Engine Light: Causes & Repairs