2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe Is Leaking Oil

Diagnosing Oil Leak Sources in Your 2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe and Recommended Repair Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe 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 2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe 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.

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 initial steps to diagnose an oil leak in a 2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe, start with a thorough visual inspection of the engine bay and the area where you typically park your vehicle. Look for any visible signs of oil, such as puddles or drips, which can help you narrow down the potential source of the leak. Next, check the oil levels in your engine; a significant drop may indicate a leak that needs immediate attention. 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, particularly the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, as these areas are prone to wear and leakage over time. If the source remains elusive, consider adding UV dye to your engine oil; this method allows you to use a UV light to trace the leak's origin effectively. Finally, if necessary, conduct a pressure test on the oil system to identify any hidden leaks. By following these steps, you can systematically diagnose and address any oil leak issues in your BMW, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is a degraded or damaged oil pan gasket, which can wear out over time and lead to leaks. Additionally, the valve cover gasket is another common source of leaks, as it can deteriorate and allow oil to escape from the top of the engine. Another area to inspect is the oil filter housing gasket; if this component fails, it can result in oil leaking around the oil filter housing. Timing cover leaks are also a possibility, as they can develop and contribute to oil loss. Lastly, the rear main seal is known to develop leaks as it ages, causing oil to escape from the rear of the engine. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent further damage to the engine and maintain the vehicle's performance. Regular inspections and maintenance can help you catch these problems early, ensuring your BMW remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2020 BMW 840i Gran Coupe is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. An oil leak can significantly reduce the oil levels in your engine, leading to inadequate lubrication of vital components. This lack of lubrication can cause severe wear and tear, ultimately resulting in costly engine damage. Moreover, neglecting an oil leak can lead to overheating, which poses a serious risk of engine failure and expensive repairs. Additionally, the safety implications cannot be overlooked; oil dripping onto hot engine parts creates a fire hazard that endangers both the vehicle and its occupants. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly and address any signs of an oil leak to maintain the performance, safety, and longevity of your BMW 840i Gran Coupe.

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