2019 BMW X1 Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2019 BMW X1 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 2019 BMW X1 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 2019 BMW X1 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 steps to diagnose and fix the oil leak in a 2019 BMW X1?

When tackling an oil leak in a 2019 BMW X1, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to ensure effective resolution. Start by thoroughly inspecting the engine bay and the area beneath the vehicle to locate the source of the leak. Pay close attention to the ground where the car is parked, as this can provide clues about the leak's origin. Next, check the oil levels to gauge the severity of the leak; low oil levels may indicate a significant issue. Inspecting gaskets and seals is crucial, as wear or damage in these components often leads to leaks. For a more precise diagnosis, consider adding UV dye to the engine oil and running the engine, which will help you pinpoint the leak's exact location under UV light. Once the leak is identified, you can proceed with repairs, starting with the simpler tasks such as tightening any loose bolts or connections. If gaskets or seals are damaged, replacing them is necessary. In cases where the leak is more severe, you may need to repair or replace parts like the oil pan or oil filter housing. Finally, after completing the repairs, clean the area around the leak to facilitate monitoring for any new leaks, ensuring that your BMW X1 remains in optimal condition.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2019 BMW X1?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a 2019 BMW X1, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is the degradation of the oil pan gasket, which can wear out over time and lead to leaks. Additionally, the valve cover gasket is another area to inspect, as it can deteriorate and allow oil to escape from the top of the engine. The oil filter housing gasket is also a potential source of leaks; if it fails, oil may seep around the oil filter housing. Furthermore, the timing cover can develop leaks, contributing to oil loss in the engine. Lastly, the rear main seal is known to wear out, resulting in oil escaping from the rear of the engine. Addressing these leaks promptly is essential to prevent further engine damage, and regular maintenance checks can help catch these issues early, ensuring your BMW X1 remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2019 BMW X1?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2019 BMW X1 is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention. Oil leaks can significantly reduce oil levels, leading to inadequate lubrication of engine components, which increases the risk of severe engine damage over time. Furthermore, neglecting an oil leak can result in engine overheating, potentially culminating in costly repairs or even complete engine failure. The safety implications are equally concerning, as leaking oil can drip onto hot engine parts, creating a fire hazard. By regularly monitoring for oil leaks and addressing them promptly, you can maintain your vehicle's performance and longevity, ensuring both your safety and the reliability of your BMW X1. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly to mitigate these risks and protect your investment.

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