2020 BMW M2 Is Leaking Oil

Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2020 BMW M2 and How to Address Them Promptly

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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 M2 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 M2 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 steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2020 BMW M2?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2020 BMW M2, begin with a thorough visual inspection of the engine and undercarriage. Look for any obvious signs of oil, such as puddles or stains, particularly around the oil pan, oil filter, and engine components. Next, check the oil levels to determine if there has been a significant drop, which could indicate a leak. Pay special attention to the gaskets and seals, as these are common culprits for oil leaks; inspect the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and oil filter housing gasket for any signs of wear or damage. If the source remains elusive, consider performing a pressure test on the oil system, which can help pinpoint leaks more accurately. For a more advanced approach, adding UV dye to the engine oil can illuminate the leak's source when viewed under a UV light. If these methods do not yield results or if you feel uncomfortable proceeding, it’s wise to consult a qualified mechanic or a BMW service center for professional assistance. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address oil leaks in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2020 BMW M2?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2020 BMW M2, it's essential to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One of the primary sources of leaks is degraded or damaged gaskets and seals, particularly the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and camshaft seal, which can wear out over time and lead to oil seepage. Additionally, the oil filter housing and oil cooler are known trouble spots; if these components are leaking, they can contribute significantly to oil loss. Another frequent issue arises from a faulty oil drain plug or a worn crush washer, which can allow oil to escape from the oil pan. It's also worth inspecting the oil pan itself for any signs of damage, such as corrosion or impact-related cracks, as these can create leaks. Lastly, be mindful of overfilling the oil, as excessive levels can increase pressure within the engine and result in leaks. By regularly checking these areas and addressing any issues promptly, DIY enthusiasts can maintain their BMW M2's performance and prevent further engine damage.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2020 BMW M2?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2020 BMW M2 is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. Oil leaks can significantly reduce oil levels, leading to inadequate lubrication of engine components, which can result in severe engine damage over time. Moreover, neglecting an oil leak can cause the engine to overheat, potentially leading to catastrophic failure. The safety implications are also considerable, as leaking oil can drip onto hot engine parts, creating a fire hazard. By addressing the leak promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also prevent more extensive and costly repairs down the line. Therefore, if you notice any signs of an oil leak, it is crucial to take action without delay to ensure the longevity and safety of your BMW M2.

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2020 BMW M2 Oil Leak Causes & Diagnosis | RepairPal