2007 BMW M6 Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2007 BMW M6 and How to Address Them Effectively

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Aisha
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 2007 BMW M6 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 2007 BMW M6 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 and fix an oil leak in a 2007 BMW M6?

To effectively diagnose and fix an oil leak in your 2007 BMW M6, start by identifying the source of the leak, as this is crucial for a successful repair. Common culprits include the valve cover gasket, timing cover gasket, and oil filter housing, so inspect these areas closely for any signs of oil accumulation. Regularly checking your oil levels is also essential; this not only helps you monitor the leak but ensures your engine remains properly lubricated. If you find the leak is beyond your expertise, don’t hesitate to consult a certified BMW mechanic who can provide a precise diagnosis and necessary repairs. It’s important to address any leaks promptly, as delaying repairs can lead to more severe engine damage. Familiarizing yourself with common leak sources, such as gaskets, oil pans, and seals, will enhance your ability to troubleshoot effectively. By taking these steps, you can maintain the performance and longevity of your BMW M6 while potentially saving on costly repairs.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2007 BMW M6?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a 2007 BMW M6, it's essential to understand the common problems that can arise within the vehicle's oil system. One of the primary culprits is the failure of engine gaskets, particularly the valve cover gasket, which can wear out over time and lead to significant oil loss. As the vehicle ages and accumulates mileage, these gaskets and seals naturally deteriorate, creating potential leak points. Additionally, higher mileage models may experience leaks from the front timing cover, necessitating gasket replacement after oil pan removal. Regular maintenance and thorough inspections are crucial in identifying these issues early, as they can prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs down the line. By staying vigilant and addressing these common causes, DIY enthusiasts can effectively manage oil leaks and maintain the performance of their BMW M6.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2007 BMW M6 to prevent potential engine damage?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2007 BMW M6 is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent necessity to safeguard your engine's health. Oil leaks can start as minor drips but can quickly escalate into significant puddles, indicating a serious underlying problem that requires immediate attention. If left unchecked, low oil levels resulting from a leak can lead to catastrophic engine damage, including complete engine failure. The vehicle's onboard computer may alert you with warning messages about low oil levels, serving as a critical signal that action is needed. Ignoring these warnings can result in severe consequences, such as low oil pressure, which can further compromise engine performance and safety. By promptly addressing the oil leak, you not only prevent costly repairs in the future but also ensure the longevity and reliability of your BMW M6. Therefore, it is imperative to take swift action to resolve any oil leak issues to maintain your vehicle's performance and avoid potential safety risks.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.